25 PhD Positions at Max Planck School of Biomedical AI, Germany

The 25 PhD positions at the Max Planck School of Biomedical AI in Germany offer an exciting route into research at the intersection of artificial intelligence and the life sciences. The first BMAI cohort is now accepting applications from graduates with strong backgrounds in computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, physics, or computational life sciences. The programme combines interdisciplinary training with research under two BMAI Fellows. Applications are open until 1 December 2026, while the PhD programme starts in September 2027.

For applicants planning an international research career, this opportunity stands out for its national research network and structured doctoral training. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, research areas, funding, application process, selection stages, and practical preparation tips.

Overview of the 25 PhD Positions at Max Planck School of Biomedical AI

The Max Planck School of Biomedical Artificial Intelligence brings together researchers working across AI, computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics, biology, chemistry, and biomedicine. Its purpose is to develop computational methods that can answer difficult questions in the life sciences.

The programme connects more than 30 research groups across universities and research institutions in Germany. Therefore, doctoral researchers gain access to a broad scientific environment rather than working within a single laboratory. The first call offers up to 25 PhD places.

Moreover, the PhD programme is designed as a structured three-year doctoral programme. Each doctoral researcher receives supervision from two BMAI Fellows with complementary backgrounds. This dual-supervision model is especially valuable for projects that combine computational methods with biomedical research.

Why Study Biomedical AI Through Max Planck School?

Biomedical research increasingly depends on complex datasets and sophisticated computational methods. As a result, researchers who understand both AI methodology and biological questions can contribute across several disciplines.

The programme offers access to state-of-the-art research environments and regular interdisciplinary Schools. Participants also receive funding for annual participation in an international scientific conference. In addition, structured mentoring and professional development opportunities form part of the programme.

Another important advantage is the employment model. During the three-year PhD, students receive a contract based on the local TVöD/TV-L E13 public-service wage agreement. The programme therefore differs from opportunities that rely only on a conventional scholarship.

Research Areas and PhD Topics

BMAI covers four closely connected research areas. Applicants should explore these areas before selecting potential supervisors.

1. AI for Molecular and Cellular Systems

Researchers use AI to interpret complex biological information. Topics include multimodal datasets, proteomics, spatial omics, and live-cell imaging. The goal is to understand the principles governing molecular and cellular systems.

2. AI for Protein and Molecule Design

This area focuses on computational and generative approaches for designing proteins and other biomolecules. Researchers combine machine learning with molecular modelling and experimental validation.

3. Complex Biological Traits and Multi-Scale Data

Here, researchers integrate information across different biological scales. Genetic variation, cell states, imaging data, and behaviour can be studied together to model complex biological traits.

4. AI for Neural Network Exploration

This research area applies explainable AI and machine learning to biological neural networks. Work can range from molecular mechanisms to larger-scale brain circuits.

Eligibility for the Max Planck School Biomedical AI PhD

The programme primarily targets candidates who will hold a completed Master’s degree or equivalent. Relevant backgrounds include computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, physics, and related disciplines. Life-science graduates can also apply when their education includes strong computational training or substantial programming experience.

Importantly, applicants do not need to have completed their Master’s degree when they submit the application. Candidates may apply with current academic records. However, they must provide the final degree documentation before the programme begins.

For international applicants, English proficiency requirements also apply. The official FAQ lists accepted tests and certain study or work-based alternatives. Therefore, applicants should check the detailed language requirements before submitting their application.

Funding, Duration and Programme Benefits

The PhD programme funds doctoral research for three years. Participants receive an employment contract under the local public-service wage framework rather than simply relying on an unpaid research placement.

In addition, the programme provides interdisciplinary scientific training, mentoring, access to participating research environments, and conference participation support. Doctoral researchers also work with a secondary supervisor and can visit that supervisor’s research group during the PhD.

There are no tuition fees associated with the Max Planck Schools’ internationally competitive funding model.

How to Apply for the 25 PhD Positions

Applications for the first BMAI cohort are open from 1 September through 1 December 2026. Successful candidates are expected to begin the PhD programme in September 2027.

Applicants should prepare:

• • Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript

  • Master’s degree certificate, or proof of current enrolment, with transcript

  • Passport or identity document

  • Academic CV

  • Motivation letter

  • Up to three preferred BMAI supervisors

  • Contact details for two referees

  • Proof of English proficiency where required

A useful strategy is to research potential supervisors before writing the motivation letter. Your selected names should reflect genuine research interests. Avoid choosing supervisors only because their institution is well known.

Selection Process and Important Dates

The selection process has three broad stages. First, BMAI Fellows screen applications and identify shortlisted candidates between December and January. Next, shortlisted applicants participate in scientific interviews from January to March. Finally, successful candidates are matched with a PhD project and dual-supervision team between March and April.

There is also an important referee deadline. Recommendations must be submitted by 10 December 2026. Therefore, applicants should contact their referees well before the main application deadline.

The official FAQ also notes that up to 25 successful candidates will ultimately be matched to PhD projects and supervisors.

Expert Tips for Applicants

Strong grades help, but they are only one part of a competitive research application. Your motivation letter should explain the scientific problems you want to investigate and why BMAI fits those interests.

For example, an Indian applicant with a biotechnology Master’s degree and strong Python, machine learning, and bioinformatics experience should highlight the computational part of that training. A generic statement about “passion for AI” is less useful than describing a research project, dataset, algorithm, or biological question that shaped your interests.

Also, do not treat the three supervisor choices as final project selections. The official FAQ explains that these preferences help the School understand your interests and support later matching. They are not binding at the application stage.

Finally, verify every transcript, translation, referee contact, and language document before pressing submit. Small administrative errors can create avoidable complications during a highly competitive selection process.

Summary Table

Conclusion

The 25 PhD positions at Max Planck School of Biomedical AI in Germany provide a strong opportunity for researchers who want to combine artificial intelligence with biomedical science. The programme offers three years of funded doctoral research, interdisciplinary supervision, research training, and access to a nationwide scientific network. Applicants should focus on demonstrating both technical ability and a clear interest in biomedical questions. With applications closing on 1 December 2026, early preparation is essential. Review the official BMAI application requirements and prepare your academic documents and referees well in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)