The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) in Germany is a joint venture of the University of Cologne Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), the University Hospital, and the Max Planck Institutes for Biology of Ageing and for Metabolism Research. We offer up to

to highly motivated and talented researchers. The structured PhD training programme within a cutting-edge research environment will start on an individual basis between 1 July and 1 October 2026.

• An outstanding international research environment at one of Europe’s most prestigious ageing research clusters, comprising 49 interdisciplinary research groups
• Initial work contracts of at least three years. (If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualification criteria, the position will be funded at 65% of a full-time equivalent or through an equivalently remunerated PhD support contract of the Max Planck Society. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications, the salary will be based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.)
• Dedicated supervision with academic guidance from thesis advisory committees
• Comprehensive PhD programme in the vibrant city of Cologne, conducted in English
• Individual career mentoring & coaching, wide range of methodology & soft skills courses
• Annual conference travel grants
• Intensive support and guidance for international students in all administrative matters

• Applicants with an MSc or equivalent degree in biology, cell / molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, bioinformatics, biophysics, genetics, medical biology, translational medicine, or a related field
• Students with excellent academic performance in their BSc and MSc studies and a clear interest in the above-mentioned research areas, with strong motivation for ageing research
• Candidates with very good English skills (C1 level, written and spoken)

Application period: August 12–November 3, 2025

Online application: https://application.ageing-grad-school.de
Contact: cga-coordination@uni-koeln.de
Website: https://www.ageing-grad-school.de

We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities. Applications from people with disabilities are especially welcome and will be given preference if equally qualified. To increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented, we strongly encourage women to apply.