DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2026 at Max Planck Institute | Fully Funded PhD

Applications for the Max Planck Institute DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2026 are now open for international students. The DAAD-GSSP (Graduate School Scholarship Programme) at the International Max Planck Research School for Biology and Computation (IMPRS-BAC) offers fully funded PhD opportunities for international students. 

The program is jointly run by the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics and Freie Universität Berlin. It focuses on research areas that combine biology, computer science, mathematics, and bioinformatics, preparing scholars for high-level research careers in molecular genetics and computational biology.

DAAD GSSP Scholarships at Max Planck Institute Summary

Benefits of the DAAD GSSP Scholarships at Max Planck Institute

• Full Funding: Monthly stipend of approximately €1,400
• Travel Allowance: Covers the cost of travel to and from Germany
• Insurance Coverage: Health, accident, and personal liability insurance included
• Research Allowance: Around €460 per year (for applicants from ODA-listed countries) or €260 for others
• Additional Support: Possible family and housing allowances, and support for candidates with disabilities
• Academic Environment: Supervised research under leading scientists at the Max Planck Institute and Freie Universität Berlin
• Training Opportunities: Access to advanced scientific workshops, transferable skills courses, and German language training
• Conference Support: Funding to attend international scientific conferences

Eligibility Requirements of the Max Planck Institute DAAD GSSP Scholarships

• Must be a non-German citizen
• Must not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months by 30 April 2026
• Must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as biology, bioinformatics, computer science, or related disciplines
• Degree must be completed with above-average academic performance
• Must have strong English proficiency (German is not required, but willingness to learn it is encouraged)
• Must not already hold a PhD
• Should have obtained the Master’s degree within the last six years

Also Check: Trudeau Foundation PhD Scholarship 2026

Selection Procedure of DAAD GSSP Scholarships

• The IMPRS-BAC admissions committee reviews all applications for academic quality and research fit.
• Shortlisted applicants are invited for an online interview with faculty members.
• The best candidates are nominated by IMPRS-BAC to the DAAD.
• DAAD reviews nominations and makes the final selection based on academic merit and eligibility criteria.
• Selected candidates receive official admission and scholarship confirmation from DAAD.

Also Check: Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 in China

Required Documents for Max Planck Institute DAAD GSSP Scholarships

1. Completed online application form
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Motivation letter/statement of purpose explaining research interests and goals
4. Academic transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
5. Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or university certification)
6. Two academic reference letters
7. Research proposal or description of research interests
8. Copy of passport or national ID

Also Check: Lee Kuan Yew PhD Scholarship in Singapore

How to Apply for the DAAD GSSP Scholarships at Max Planck Institute

1. Visit the official IMPRS-BAC application portal and complete the online application form.
2. Upload all required documents in the specified format.
3. Submit your application by January 7, 2026 (18:00 CET).
4. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed and considered for nomination to the DAAD-GSSP program.
5. If nominated, you will receive an invitation to submit your documents to DAAD for final approval.

Also Check: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27

Application Timeline