Program Overview

Genes in Development, Disease and Evolution (Ph.D.)

The doctoral program "Genes in Development, Disease and Evolution" is part of the Göttingen Graduate Center for Neurosciences, Biophysics, and Molecular Biosciences (GGNB). This program focuses on Genetics and Developmental Biology to better understand developmental, physiological, and evolutionary processes, as well as to study the cause, course, and treatment of diseases.

Program Details

• Name: Genes in Development, Disease and Evolution
• Degree: Doctoral degree (Dr.rer.nat./Ph.D.)
• Graduate School: GGNB
• Standard Period of Study: 6 semesters
• Start of Studies: Summer and winter semester
• Language of the Programme: English
• Admission: Restricted admission (application to GGNB)

Features

The program is hosted by the Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB) and is conducted jointly by the University of Göttingen, the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, and the German Primate Center. It is a research-oriented program taught in English, open to students who hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in the biosciences, chemistry, physics, medicine, or related fields.

Structure

The GGNB offers an integrated training and qualification concept consisting of:

• Thesis advisory committees advising the doctoral student and monitoring the progress of the doctoral project
• Scientific methods courses, seminars, and summer schools in all science areas covered by the graduate school
• Professional skills courses in the four categories: Scientific Communication; Good Scientific Practice, Ethics, and Intellectual Property; Self-Management and Organizational Skills; and Career Development, as well as German language courses and courses on Scientific English
• Industry excursions to biotechnological, pharmaceutical, optical, or (bio)physical companies, guided by GGNB alumni
• Student-organized scientific symposia and career-related events
• Annual Ph.D. retreats organized by the programs

In total, 20 credits are required, and doctoral students can tailor their individual curriculum by choosing from all courses and events. Only a Seminar on Good Scientific Practice is mandatory.

Application

Previous Education

• M.Sc. degree (or equivalent) in the biosciences, chemistry, physics, or related fields.

Language Requirements

• If English is not the first language, proof of proficiency in English at level C1 of the CEFR (or equivalent, e.g., completion of an M.Sc. degree in English or IELTS Band 7) is required.

Further Requirements

• Eligibility to apply to GGNB if:
  • Already secured a doctoral position with a GGNB faculty member (apply within 3 months after the start of the PhD project)
  • Successfully established contact with a GGNB faculty member who has expressed an interest in the application and who may be able to offer a PhD position if the selection process is passed (apply up to 4 months before the planned start of the PhD project)