IMPRS Intelligent Systems is recruiting for its 2027 PhD hiring round in Germany. Selected researchers receive employment funding, with an initial three-year contract. Apply by 15 November 2026, end of day Anywhere on Earth (AoE); accepted candidates can join from February 2027 or later.
The programme connects the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems with the Universities of Stuttgart and Tübingen. It suits applicants interested in AI, machine learning, robotics and related research. Funding is a salaried doctoral position; check individual contract conditions before accepting an offer.
Stuttgart / Tübingen, Germany · PhD
Initial three-year employment contract
15 November 2026 · End of day AoE
Funding and benefits
The official FAQ states that all scholars receive an initial three-year work contract and a salary at least equivalent to 65% of TVÖD E13. Extensions may be possible. The call does not promise one fixed euro amount, free accommodation or a universal relocation package. Interview travel costs are covered according to the application page. Ask the host about salary, deductions and university charges.
Eligibility and language requirements
Applicants should have a strong academic background and a master’s degree completed or expected soon in engineering, computer science, cognitive science, mathematics, control theory, neuroscience, materials science, physics or a related field. Existing PhD students supervised by participating faculty may apply in their first year.
English is the working language. Non-native speakers must show proficiency through a test or other evidence, such as English-language study, work, a thesis or paper. GRE scores are optional. The pages reviewed do not give a universal IELTS score threshold. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Required documents
- Personal contact details and preferred faculty members.
- CV with education, work, publications, presentations and awards.
- Unofficial transcripts from all university studies.
- Two-page motivation letter explaining programme fit and research interests.
- Three referees’ names and email addresses; their letters must arrive within the application deadline.
- Evidence of English proficiency where applicable.
- Optional GRE scores, thesis, publications or project portfolio.
How to apply
- Review the official application instructions and faculty directory.
- Identify research areas and suitable supervisors. Associated faculty require a full faculty co-supervisor.
- Prepare your documents and ask three referees early.
- Use the online application route on the official page; enter details and upload materials.
- Review the completed submission and ensure references arrive by the deadline.
- Monitor email for selection updates and follow any interview instructions.
Deadline for the 2027 hiring round
15 November 2026, end of day AoE is the stated doctoral application deadline. AoE means Anywhere on Earth; do not interpret it as German midnight. References are also requested within the application deadline. This is the programme’s recruitment deadline, not a general university admissions deadline.
Selection process
Applications undergo completeness and academic review before shortlisted candidates are invited to interviews. The application page describes interviews in Stuttgart and Tübingen, while the FAQ describes an online symposium. The invitation should determine the actual format; no exact 2027 interview dates were verified. The FAQ says applicants receive an update by mid-January, with interviews generally in late January or early February and offers generally in February or March.
Practical applicant tips
- Explain how your previous work connects to a specific research group.
- Choose referees who can discuss your research contribution.
- Show clear evidence of English proficiency if you omit test scores.
- Keep your ideas and substantive application work your own. The programme permits AI language improvement, but prohibits using it to generate intellectual content.
FAQs
Is this a funded PhD?
Yes. Selected scholars receive employment contracts; the FAQ specifies an initial three years.
Can I apply before finishing my master’s?
The call accepts applicants whose master’s degree is expected soon. Confirm completion timing with the programme if uncertain.
Is TOEFL compulsory?
The programme accepts other evidence of English proficiency. GRE is optional.
Can I choose a supervisor?
Yes. Applicants can identify preferred faculty and research areas in the application.
Official sources
- IMPRS-IS application, eligibility, documents and deadline
- Official FAQ: contracts, English evidence and selection
Verified on 6 October 2026. Follow the official portal and invitation if instructions change.
Apply Now — Official IMPRS-IS Instructions
