Apply to Integrated MSc/PhD Program of the Max Planck School Matter to Life

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Your journey starts here – from your Master’s directly to a PhD

Are you an undergraduate student majoring in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, bioengineering, or related subjects? Are you looking to further your studies in an interdisciplinary program, that combines these research fields?

Join a global network of leading scientists, gain access to world-class research facilities, and receive full funding for up to five years.

During your first two years, you’ll explore interdisciplinary science at top German universities. Then, you’ll move directly into a three-year PhD within our excellent Fellow network, developing the research ideas you began in your Master’s phase.

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START YOUR APPLICATION

What can you expect?

🧬 Interdisciplinarity and Internationality

Get on board with interdisciplinary, cutting-edge research! Our entirely English program connects you with peers from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds.

👥 Unique and Innovative Network

As part of Germany’s innovative graduate education network you will participate in a wide range of courses related to your research field during your Master’s. Small cohort sizes ensure close contact with other researchers and individualized feedback from your supervisor.

🔬 Frontier Infrastructure

Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, to which you have access at any time. In addition, we hold numerous symposia, scientific events, and international conferences around the year giving you a first-hand view of emerging research trends.

💸 Full Funding - no Tuition Fees

Being enrolled in the MPS MtL program you will receive full funding during your Master as well as PhD studies so that you can freely choose your desired direction and focus entirely on your research project.

🏛️ Excellent Faculty

Learn from world-renowned scientists and take part in pioneering research at leading German research institutions

Infographic showing the stages of the Integrated Graduate Program at Max Planck School Matter to Life: Onboarding with virtual kickoff and peer support, Master's phase at the Universities of Göttingen and Heidelberg, PhD research in Matter to Life labs, and Alumni engagement for collaboration and career development.

Ready to apply? Here’s how you can join us:

Application Deadline: December 1^st, 2025

1. Prepare your motivation letter

2. Gather your necessary certificates

3. Submit your application via our portal

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Get to know our Master to PhD Direct Track

Watch a presentation about the MPS MtL and our Master to PhD direct track program

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hj2uchE_O2w

Any further questions?

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Get to Know the Max Planck School Matter to Life!

Learn all about our School and Graduate Program in a live presentation. Meet our coordinators and students, and get answers to all your questions.
Participation is free—just register via Zoom to attend! more