For international students who want to pursue advanced research in human medicine and neuroscience, Germany has created a unique, fully financed PhD opportunity. Global candidates are being invited to apply for the Research Training Group (RTG 3151) PhD opportunities for the 2026–2027 cohort by the University of Bonn in partnership with the German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE).
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When is the Application Deadline:
15 February 2026
(Application window: 1 December 2025 – 15 February 2026)
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
Tell Me About The Award:
The Research Training Group (RTG) 3151 PhD Scholarships at the University of Bonn, funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), offer up to 10 fully funded PhD positions in developmental neuroscience and epilepsy research. The structured doctoral program focuses on the development and epileptogenesis of brain dysplasias and integrates basic neuroscience with clinically relevant research.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Biology
- Neuroscience
- Human Medicine
- Developmental Neurobiology
- Life Sciences (closely related fields)
Type:
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship / Paid Doctoral Research Position
Who can Apply?
- International applicants worldwide
- Master’s degree holders (or equivalent) in a relevant field
- Applicants who will complete their Master’s degree before September 2026
- Candidates with strong academic backgrounds and research motivation
- Applicants with advanced English proficiency (minimum C1 level)
How are Applicants Selected?
- Review of academic qualifications and application documents
- Evaluation of motivation and research interest
- Letters of recommendation
- Shortlisted candidates invited to an online Selection Symposium (March 19–20, 2026)
- Final candidates invited to in-person interviews and lab visits in Bonn
Which Countries Are Eligible?
All countries (open to international applicants worldwide)
Where will the Award be Taken?
University of Bonn, Germany
(in collaboration with the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases – DZNE)
How Many Awards?
Up to 10 PhD positions
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Fully funded 4-year PhD employment contract
- Competitive salary (TV-L / TVÖD E13, 65%)
- Approximate net monthly salary of €1,800, increasing over time
- Structured PhD training program in English
- Advanced research training and mentorship
- Conference participation and travel funding
- Career development coaching and transferable skills training
- Clinical rotations and interdisciplinary research exposure
- Relocation, administrative, and family support
How Long Will the Award Last?
4 years, starting 1 September 2026
How to Apply:
- Apply online via the RTG 3151 application portal
- Submit academic transcripts, motivation letter, research statements
- Nominate two referees to upload recommendation letters
- Complete the application before the deadline
