- Fully FundedFunding Status
- ~15 November 2026 (est.)Application Deadline
- Germany (Stuttgart & Tübingen)Location
- Founded 2017Program Establishment
- Funding guaranteed through 2030Financial Stability
- PhDDegree Level
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
All countries
Country
IMPRS-IS
Provider
The International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) offers fully funded PhD positions in Germany, focusing on the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and intelligent systems. Established in 2017, this interdisciplinary doctoral program is a collaboration between the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, the University of Stuttgart, and the University of Tübingen, pooling resources to train future research leaders. It is one of the largest such programs within the Max Planck Society and is guaranteed funding through at least 2030. Doctoral scholars benefit from close collaboration across diverse fields including engineering, computer science, neuroscience, and cognitive science. They conduct research alongside internationally recognized faculty members at partner institutions located in Stuttgart and Tübingen, Germany. The program supports a wide array of research areas, from Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to Robotics and Neuroscience, encouraging interdisciplinary projects. Applications are accepted once a year, typically closing around mid-November. The program is committed to diversity and welcomes applicants from around the globe, with successful candidates starting their studies from February 2027 onwards. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Full Employment Contract — Scholars receive full financial support through an employment contract, based on the regulations of the Max Planck Society and partner universities, rather than a traditional scholarship. This covers all living expenses.
- Salary Support — A competitive salary is provided, aligned with employment regulations in Germany, estimated at ~EUR 40,000-50,000 per year (est.), depending on experience and family status.
- Travel Costs for Interviews — IMPRS-IS covers interview travel costs for shortlisted applicants invited to attend in-person interviews in Stuttgart and Tübingen.
- Research Expenses — Support for research-related costs, including equipment, software, and conference attendance, is typically included through the employment contract and institutional resources.
- Tuition Fees — As PhD positions in Germany are typically not subject to tuition fees, this program effectively covers all study-related costs.
How to apply
The application process for IMPRS-IS PhD positions is conducted online through their dedicated portal. Candidates are required to submit a comprehensive set of documents detailing their academic history, research interests, and professional aspirations.
- Access the Online Application Portal — Navigate to the official IMPRS-IS website and locate the online application portal for PhD positions. Ensure you are applying for the 2027 intake.
- Complete Personal Information — Fill in all required personal contact details accurately within the online application form.
- Prepare and Upload Documents — Gather all necessary application documents, including your CV, transcripts, motivation letter, and English proficiency evidence, and upload them to the portal.
- Identify Supervisors and Referees — Indicate your preferred IMPRS-IS faculty supervisors and provide the names and email addresses of three referees who will submit letters of recommendation on your behalf.
- Submit Your Application — Review all information and uploaded documents thoroughly before submitting your complete application by the stated deadline. Ensure referees submit their letters in time.
Eligibility
Academic DegreeApplicants must have, or expect to complete, a master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Cognitive Science, Neuroscience, Physics, Materials Science, Control Theory, or related quantitative disciplines.
Academic RecordCandidates should demonstrate strong academic records in their prior studies.
Current Doctoral StudentsCurrent doctoral students may apply during their first year if they are already supervised by an IMPRS-IS faculty or associated faculty member.
English ProficiencyEvidence of English proficiency is required where applicable, typically for non-native English speakers from non-English speaking academic institutions.
The program encourages interdisciplinary research and promotes diversity, particularly welcoming applications from women and individuals from underrepresented research areas. Applicants can indicate preferred research areas and supervisors during the application process.
Eligible countries
All countries
Deadlines
2027 Admission2026-11-15
Selection
Applications undergo a competitive review process by IMPRS-IS faculty and staff, who evaluate academic background, research interests, and potential fit with the program. Shortlisted candidates are invited for personal interviews in Stuttgart and Tübingen. During these interviews, applicants discuss their academic qualifications, research aspirations, and potential alignment with faculty members. The program encourages applicants to specify their preferred research themes and faculty supervisors during their initial application.
Verified sources
- IMPRS-IS Fully Funded PhD Positions 2027 in Germany | Applications Openglobalsouthopportunities.comannouncement
- IMPRS-IS Official Websiteimprs-is.mpg.deofficial
About the provider
The International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) is a collaborative doctoral program established in 2017. It brings together the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, the University of Stuttgart, and the University of Tübingen to foster research and training in AI, robotics, and intelligent systems.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the IMPRS-IS Fully Funded PhD Positions program?
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It is a doctoral program offered by the International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems in Germany, focusing on AI, robotics, and intelligent systems. It provides fully funded PhD positions through employment contracts.
What does the scholarship cover?
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The program provides full financial support through an employment contract, covering salary, research expenses, and interview travel costs for shortlisted candidates. Tuition fees are generally not applicable for PhD studies in Germany.
What is the typical award value?
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While specific figures are not stated, scholars receive a competitive salary through an employment contract, which is typically around ~EUR 40,000-50,000 per year (est.) depending on standard German public sector rates for PhD researchers.
Who is eligible to apply?
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Applicants from all countries with strong academic records and a master’s degree in relevant scientific or engineering fields are eligible. First-year doctoral students already supervised by an IMPRS-IS faculty member may also apply.
Which countries are eligible for this scholarship?
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Applicants from all countries are eligible to apply, as the program welcomes international candidates globally.
Which study levels are covered by this program?
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This program specifically covers PhD (doctoral) level studies in intelligent systems.
When is the application deadline for the 2027 intake?
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The application deadline for the 2027 intake is 15 November 2026 (End of Day, Anywhere on Earth).
How do I apply for the IMPRS-IS PhD positions?
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You apply online through the official IMPRS-IS application portal by submitting your documents and details. You will also need to provide contacts for three referees.
What documents are required for the application?
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Required documents include a CV, unofficial transcripts, a two-page motivation letter, and three referee contacts. Evidence of English proficiency is also needed if applicable.
How are recipients selected?
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Selection is based on a competitive review of applications by faculty and staff. Shortlisted candidates are invited for personal interviews in Germany to discuss their background, research interests, and program fit.
What is the duration of the program and is it renewable?
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The PhD program typically lasts 3-4 years. Funding is provided through an employment contract, which is renewed annually based on satisfactory progress, with program funding guaranteed through at least 2030.
Where can I confirm the current details for this scholarship?
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For the most current and definitive details, please visit the official website of the International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems at www.imprs-is.mpg.de.