Are you eager to explore how and why we age?

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

Apply now!

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 CGA annually offers up to 12 fully funded Ph.D. positions in the interdisciplinary field of ageing research. Our application call opens on August 15, 2023; deadline is November 6, 2023. The 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 including social security such as health insurance and other benefits. The approximate net income per month is €1,820.

Students holding a B.Sc. degree that wish to start their Master's studies at the University of Cologne in the Biological Sciences or Biochemistry and are interested in ageing research are encouraged to apply to our Master fellowship programme. Master fellows receive a monthly fellowship of €934 and are affiliated to a mentor of our faculty. They can engage in scientific and social activities of the mentor’s group and have regular advisory meetings. This way our Master fellows have the chance to identify the research field they are most passionate about for their Ph.D. 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. projects on our webpage.

Our offer, your benefits

During a recruitment week invited candidates can visit up to 5 research groups to find the optimal laboratory for their doctorate. Individual Ph.D. projects start between July and October. A welcome week offers workshops, social activities, introduction to the campus and support with many administrative matters.

The Ph.D. programme is conducted in English and includes a tailor-made three-year career development module. It is complemented by scientific retreats, lectures, journal clubs and professional skills workshops. Annual travel grants enable our students to network at international conferences.

The CGA strives to foster scientific independence by immersing students in high quality research, encouraging critical thinking and lively exchange with other scientists. Upon graduation, the doctoral degree is awarded by the University of Cologne.

Check out our CGA stories or contact us!

Who can apply?

We are seeking 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 please visit our webpage.