The International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) has officially opened applications for its 2027 fully funded PhD positions in Germany. The prestigious doctoral programme brings together the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, the University of Stuttgart, and the University of Tübingen to train the next generation of researchers in artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning and intelligent systems.
Applications are accepted once a year, with the deadline set for 15 November 2026 (End of Day, Anywhere on Earth). Successful candidates may begin their doctoral studies from February 2027 or later.
About the IMPRS-IS Doctoral Programme
Established in 2017, IMPRS-IS is one of the largest interdisciplinary doctoral programmes within the Max Planck Society and is guaranteed funding through at least 2030. The programme combines world-leading research with close collaboration across engineering, computer science, neuroscience and cognitive science.
Doctoral scholars work alongside internationally renowned faculty members while conducting cutting-edge research at partner institutions in Stuttgart and Tübingen, Germany.
Research Areas
Applicants can pursue doctoral research across a wide range of intelligent systems disciplines, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Natural Language Processing
- Robotics
- Soft Robotics and Smart Materials
- Computer Vision
- Computer Graphics
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Data Science and Visualization
- Computational Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Technology
- Haptics
- Control Systems
- Micro- and Nano-Robotics
- Perceptual Inference
The programme encourages interdisciplinary research and allows applicants to identify preferred research areas and supervisors during the application process.
Who Is Eligible?
The programme welcomes applicants from around the world with strong academic records in relevant scientific and engineering disciplines.
Eligible candidates should have, or expect to complete, a master’s degree in fields such as:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
- Physics
- Materials Science
- Control Theory
- Related quantitative disciplines
Current doctoral students may also apply during their first year if they are already supervised by an IMPRS-IS faculty or associated faculty member.
The programme is committed to diversity and equal opportunity and particularly encourages applications from women in underrepresented research areas.
Financial Support
All admitted PhD scholars receive full financial support through an employment contract, rather than a traditional scholarship. Funding is provided according to the employment regulations of the Max Planck Society and the participating universities.
In addition to salary support, IMPRS-IS covers interview travel costs for shortlisted applicants invited to attend interviews in Stuttgart and Tübingen, ensuring financial circumstances do not prevent talented candidates from participating.
Selection Process
Applications undergo a competitive review by IMPRS-IS faculty and staff. Shortlisted candidates are invited to personal interviews, where they have the opportunity to discuss their academic background, research interests and potential fit with the programme.
Applicants are encouraged to indicate both their preferred research themes and the faculty members they wish to work with. Associated faculty members may serve as co-supervisors alongside a full IMPRS-IS faculty supervisor.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must complete the online application and submit the following materials:
- Personal contact information
- Current CV or résumé
- Unofficial university transcripts
- A two-page motivation letter
- Preferred IMPRS-IS faculty supervisors
- Names and email addresses of three referees
- Evidence of English proficiency (where applicable)
Optional supporting documents include GRE scores, research publications, thesis manuscripts and project portfolios.
Important AI Policy
IMPRS-IS permits applicants to use AI tools for improving grammar, clarity and writing style. However, AI must not be used to generate research ideas, develop concepts or produce original intellectual content. All substantive academic contributions must be the applicant’s own work.
Why Apply to IMPRS-IS?
The programme offers exceptional opportunities to work with globally recognized researchers in artificial intelligence and intelligent systems while benefiting from an interdisciplinary research environment across Germany’s leading institutions. Graduates gain advanced research training, international collaboration experience and access to one of Europe’s strongest AI and robotics ecosystems.
Application Deadline
Application deadline: 15 November 2026 (End of Day, AoE)
Programme start: February 2027 or later
Location: Stuttgart and Tübingen, Germany
Funding: Fully funded through an employment contract
