Group photo of 30 doctoral students, taken outdoors in summer.

International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) 'From Molecules to Organisms'

The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) “From Molecules to Organisms” provides the next generation of scientists with the knowledge and skills to study complex biological processes, which cannot be adequately understood within the limits of single disciplines, in the context of entire organisms.

The IMPRS “From Molecules to Organisms” provides excellent interdisciplinary training across the disciplines of structural, molecular, cellular and developmental biology as well as bioinformatics, genomics and evolutionary biology.
The challenging and innovative program bridges between diverse disciplines and several levels of biological organization. Research topics offered to the students are drawn from the following traditionally separate fields:

  • Biophysics
  • Biochemistry and structural biology
  • Bioinformatics and computational biology
  • Molecular and cellular biology
  • Developmental biology and genetics
  • Genomics and proteomics
  • Microbiology and microbiome science
  • Evolutionary biology and ecology


We offer you

  • high standards of dedicated mentoring
  • a vibrant interdisciplinary community of international researchers
  • cutting edge technologies in our research facilities
  • personal and professional skills development opportunities including
  • a wide range of scientific skills courses
  • transferable skills workshops
  • career development support through workshops and individual support


Mentoring & Supervision
PhD projects are available with selected faculty from the Max Planck Institute for Biology, the Friedrich Miescher Laboratory and the University of Tübingen. You will be conducting your work at the laboratory of your advisor at one of the three locations.

Application Process
We have regular application rounds. 

Program language
The program language is English. We encourage and support our PhD students to learn German.

Degree awarded
Our students generally obtain their doctoral degree from the Faculty of Science at the University of Tübingen. The awarded degree is Dr. rer. nat. (Doctorate in Natural Sciences).

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