About the Graduate School

CGA is a joint initiative of four world-class institutions in Cologne, Germany:

• University of Cologne Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD)
• University Hospital Cologne
• Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing
• Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research

The program offers exceptional training in developmental biology, evolutionary biology, genetics, structural biology, metabolism, and cell biology, with 49 interdisciplinary research groups working at the forefront of ageing science.

What the Program Offers

Successful PhD fellows will benefit from:

• Fully funded 3+ year contracts under TV-L E13 (65%) or Max Planck equivalent
• An international research environment with cutting-edge facilities
• Comprehensive PhD training program conducted entirely in English
• Dedicated supervision and mentoring via thesis advisory committees
• Career coaching plus methodology and soft skills courses
• Annual conference travel grants
• Full relocation and visa support for international students
• A vibrant academic and cultural life in Cologne, Germany

Candidate Profile

CGA seeks highly motivated and talented candidates who have:

• An MSc or equivalent degree in:
  • Biology
  • Molecular or Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Bioengineering
  • Bioinformatics
  • Biophysics
  • Genetics
  • Medical Biology
  • Translational Medicine
  • Or related disciplines
• Excellent academic records in BSc and MSc studies
• Strong passion for ageing research
• Proficiency in English at C1 level (written and spoken)

Application Details

• Application Period: August 12 – November 3, 2025
• Start Date: Between July 1 – October 1, 2026
• How to Apply: Submit online via the CGA Application Portal
• Contact: cga-coordination@uni-koeln.de
• Website: www.ageing-grad-school.de

Diversity and Inclusion

CGA is deeply committed to equal opportunities and diversity.

• Applications from women are strongly encouraged.
• Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in cases of equal qualifications.
• The program actively welcomes international researchers from all backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many positions are available?
There are 12 fully funded PhD positions.

2. What is the duration of the PhD program?
At least 3 years, with possible extensions.

3. Do I need to speak German?
No. The entire program is conducted in English.

4. Can international students apply?
Yes. CGA provides full support for visas and relocation.

5. What is the salary?
PhD fellows are paid under TV-L E13 (65%) or equivalent Max Planck contracts.

6. What is the deadline?
Applications close on November 3, 2025.

About the Program – Evolutionary Genomics and Reproductive Systems

This interdisciplinary doctoral program explores the evolutionary genomics of diverse reproductive systems across animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms. Research projects will address:

• The paradox of sex and its evolutionary implications
• Comparative genome evolution in sexual vs. asexual organisms
• Nuclear-organelle genome interactions
• Horizontal gene transfer between prokaryotes and eukaryotes via viruses
• Development of analytical methods for chromosome architecture and mutation–selection modeling

Why Choose the University of Göttingen?

Doctoral researchers will benefit from:

• Access to the Center for National High Performance Computing and AI Service Center
• Integration into the renowned Göttingen Campus research network
• Hands-on training in state-of-the-art genomic techniques
• Conference participation, seminars, and career workshops
• A collaborative, inclusive, and family-friendly research environment

The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunity employer and actively encourages applications from women and candidates with disabilities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should have:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Biology, ideally with a focus on evolutionary genomics
• Skills in molecular laboratory techniques, bioinformatics, and statistical genomics
• Strong understanding of reproductive system evolution
• Excellent English proficiency (C1 level or higher)
• Team spirit and strong collaboration skills

Application Requirements

Your PDF application should include:

1. Motivation letter (including up to three preferred PhD projects)
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. List of publications (if applicable)
4. Academic transcripts (Master’s degree or equivalent)
5. Certificates of English proficiency

Application deadline: September 1, 2025
Apply via: University of Göttingen application portal
Note: Only PhD 2 projects are available (PhD 1 positions have been filled).

Contact Information

For academic inquiries:
Prof. Dr. Elvira Hörandl
elvira.hoerandl@biologie.uni-goettingen.de
+49 551 39 28540