Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research

The CGA provides a structured, interdisciplinary PhD programme conducted entirely in English. Students are immersed in a dynamic international community with intensive supervision, early research independence, and a tailored career development curriculum.

Key features of the programme:

• 12 fully funded PhD positions — Awarded annually

• 3+ year employment contract — Including social benefits and health insurance

• TV-L E13, 65% salary — Gross ~€2,750/month, net ~€2,060/month in year one

• No tuition fees — Only a ~€356/semester social fee

• English-taught — All activities and coursework in English

• University of Cologne degree — All successful applicants are enrolled through the University of Cologne

• Recruitment week — Invited candidates visit up to 5 research groups in Cologne

Related: Learn more about research in Germany.

Successful CGA PhD students receive:

• Employment contract — Minimum 3 years with social security (health insurance, pension, unemployment insurance)

• Competitive salary — Based on German TV-L E13, 65% scale: gross ~€2,750/month, net ~€2,060/month in the first year

• Extended funding — If the PhD is not completed within 3 years, the PI will fund the student until completion under the same conditions

• Annual travel grant — €1,500 to attend international conferences

• Structured curriculum — Lecture series, journal clubs, scientific retreats, and professional skills workshops

• Career mentoring — Personalised career development module over 3 years

• Welcome week — Workshops, social activities, campus introduction, and administrative support

• Recruitment week — Visit up to 5 research groups to find your optimal lab

• Social events — Regular networking events including the "regulars' table" for cross-topic collaboration

• Deutschlandticket — Included in the semester social fee (~€356/semester), allowing travel on public transport across Germany

• University facilities — Access to cafeterias, sports facilities, and libraries

Note: Depending on the research group's affiliation, the employment contract is concluded with either the University of Cologne, the University Hospital of Cologne, or the Max Planck Society. Certain aspects of the contracts may therefore differ.

For the online application via the CGA application portal, you will need:

• Statement of prior research experience — Describing your background and achievements

• Motivation statement — Explaining why you want to join the CGA programme

• Detailed research proposal — Outlining your scientific interests and ideas

• Three possible host laboratories — Specify which research groups you are interested in joining

• Two academic referees — Contact details of two academic advisors (one should be your most recent supervisor, e.g., your BSc or MSc thesis supervisor)

• CV — Updated academic curriculum vitae

• Certificates and transcripts — Degree certificates and academic transcripts from all previous studies

• Other supporting documents — Any additional relevant materials as separate PDF files

Tip: Projects for the 2027 intake will be published on August 11, 2026. Review them carefully before selecting your three preferred host laboratories.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Degree: Must hold a Master's degree or equivalent in cell or molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, bioinformatics, bioengineering, pharmacology, neuroscience, medical biology, translational medicine, or related fields

• Medical degree holders: Applicants with a medical degree are encouraged to apply, provided they demonstrate adequate relevant research experience

• English proficiency: C1 level in both written and spoken English is essential

• Language proof: If available, submit a language assessment result through the application platform. A formal test certificate is not mandatory — you may alternatively include a written statement outlining your reasons for considering yourself fluent in English

• Research experience: Prior research experience (e.g., BSc or MSc thesis) is expected

Follow these steps to apply for the CGA PhD Programme 2027:

Step 1: Visit the CGA PhD Applications page and review the programme details, requirements, and FAQs.

Step 2: Check the list of available PhD projects from August 11, 2026 onward to identify your research interests and three preferred host laboratories.

Step 3: Prepare all required documents: research experience statement, motivation letter, detailed research proposal, CV, certificates, transcripts, and referee contact details.

Step 4: Ensure your English proficiency is at C1 level. If you have a test certificate, include it. If not, prepare a written statement explaining your fluency.

Step 5: Register on the CGA online application portal and complete all sections of the application form.

Step 6: Upload all supporting documents as separate PDF files and submit your complete application before the deadline.

Step 7: Wait for the initial evaluation. Up to 80 candidates will be selected for online panel interviews in December 2026.

Step 8: If selected for interviews, prepare to discuss your research background, proposal, and motivation with the CGA faculty panel.

Step 9: From the interview pool, up to 25 candidates will be invited to the recruitment week in Cologne in February 2027, where you will visit up to 5 research groups.

Step 10: If offered a position, accept and prepare for your PhD to commence between July and October 2027.

Important: All successful applicants will be enrolled through the University of Cologne. The programme is highly selective — ensure every component of your application is polished and compelling.