Are you eager to explore how and why we age?

Join us and help to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of ageing and age-related diseases.

Five partners, a strong profile

The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) in Germany is a joint venture of the University of Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), the University and University Hospital Cologne, the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing and the Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research. The Cologne/Bonn area has developed into a leading global research community with a stellar constellation of institutes and scientists dedicated to ageing research in life sciences.

The CGA annually offers up to 12 fully funded Ph.D. positions in the highly interdisciplinary field of ageing research at the most prestigious ageing research hub in Europe. Our comprehensive programme provides outstanding research conditions with intensive supervision, supportive trainings and state-of-the-art facilities in an international environment. Ph.D. students receive work contracts for the duration of the structured programme including social security such as health insurance and other benefits. Payment is based on the German TV-L E13 scale, 65% if terms and conditions under collective bargaining law are fulfilled or on an equivalently remunerated Ph.D. support contract of the Max Planck Society. The approximate net income per month is EUR 1,750.

Students holding a B.Sc. degree in a relevant field that is eager to start their Master's studies at the University of Cologne in Biological Science or Biochemistry and have a fundamental interest in ageing research are encouraged to apply to our Master fellowship programme. CGA Master fellows are supported with a fellowship of €861/month and are affiliated to a mentor of our faculty. They can actively engage in scientific and social activities of the mentor’s group and have regular advisory meetings with their mentor. This way our Master fellows have the unique chance to identify the research field they are most passionate about for their PhD studies already at an early stage.

Interdisciplinary research areas

• DNA Damage & Repair
• Genetics & Epigenetics
• Immunology & Inflammation
• Membrane & Lipid Biology
• Metabolism & Nutrient Sensing
• Mitochondrial Biology
• Neuroscience & Neurodegeneration
• Protein Homeostasis
• RNA Metabolism
• Stem Cells & Tissue Regeneration
• Systems Biology & Bioinformatics
• Tumour Biology

Find more information on possible Ph.D. research projects on our webpage.

Our offer, your benefits

The structured training programme can be carried out in up to 50 participating research groups. During an on-site recruitment week at the beginning of each year, invited candidates can pursue lab visits in up to 5 research groups in order to find the optimal laboratory for their doctorate. The Ph.D. projects start between July and October on an individual basis. In October, there is an orientation week including common workshops, social activities and an overall introduction to the CGA campus as well as the organisation of administrative issues specifically for international students.

The Ph.D. programme is completely conducted in English and includes a tailor-made unique three-year career development module. It is furthermore complemented by annual scientific retreats, lectures and journal clubs on ageing-related topics as well as diverse soft and hard skill workshops. For international students, intensive support and guidance in all administrative matters is offered.

The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research strives to foster scientific independence by immersing students in high quality research, encouraging critical thinking skills and lively exchange with other scientists. Upon completion of the Ph.D., the doctoral degree is awarded by the University of Cologne.

Who can apply?

We are seeking highly qualified students with a passion for life science and a strong interest in ageing research! Interested students should hold a M.Sc. or equivalent degree with a background in cell or molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, biophysics, bioinformatics, bioengineering, pharmacology, neuroscience, medical biology, translational medicine or a related field.

For more information and details on the application process please visit our webpage.