Apply for the fully funded IMPRS-IDI 2026 PhD program in infectious diseases and immunology in Berlin. Six positions available. Deadline: December 10, 2025.
About the IMPRS-IDI 2026 PhD Program
The International Max Planck Research School for Infectious Diseases and Immunology (IMPRS-IDI) has opened its 2026 Call for Applications for six fully funded PhD positions. This world-renowned PhD program brings together outstanding researchers and students from around the globe to address fundamental questions in infection biology, immunology, microbiology, molecular and cell biology, parasitology, medical biotechnology, and bioinformatics.
Based in Berlin, Germany, IMPRS-IDI offers an international research environment with around 75 doctoral students from more than 25 countries. The school’s mission is to nurture creative, critical, and independent researchers who contribute to advancing scientific knowledge in the life sciences.
The program is jointly organized by leading research institutions:
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Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology (MPIIB)
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German Rheumatology Research Center (DRFZ)
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Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
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Technische Universität Berlin
Students accepted into the IMPRS-IDI PhD program will engage in cutting-edge research in laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art technology, supported by an exceptional network of supervisors and mentors.
Why This PhD Program Stands Out
The IMPRS-IDI 2026 PhD program offers more than financial support. It provides an opportunity to become part of a vibrant scientific community that values collaboration, diversity, and innovation.
Participants will benefit from:
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Full financial support including tuition coverage and a competitive monthly stipend.
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Structured training and mentoring, including scientific courses, transferable skills workshops, and seminars.
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Access to world-class research facilities at partner institutions in Berlin.
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Networking opportunities with internationally recognized scientists.
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Funding for conference travel and short-term research stays abroad.
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Integration into an active, international PhD community in the heart of Berlin.
The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and personal development, preparing graduates for successful research careers in academia, industry, and beyond.
Research Areas
The IMPRS-IDI supports PhD research in a wide range of disciplines across infection biology and immunology, including:
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Host-pathogen interactions and immune defense mechanisms
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Molecular and cellular processes in infection
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Vaccine development and immune regulation
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Systems biology and bioinformatics
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Pathogen evolution and antimicrobial resistance
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Parasitology and microbiome studies
Students will be part of interdisciplinary teams working on projects that contribute to major global health priorities, such as understanding emerging diseases and developing new therapeutic strategies.
Who Can Apply
The IMPRS-IDI PhD program is open to highly motivated applicants from all over the world who hold, or are close to completing, a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field of the life sciences.
Eligible candidates should demonstrate:
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Strong academic background in biology, biomedicine, or related areas.
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Clear interest in infectious disease and immunology research.
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Proficiency in English (the working language of the program).
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Motivation and curiosity for scientific discovery.
There are no nationality restrictions. The program actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups and fosters an inclusive, international academic culture.
How to Apply
Application Deadline: 10 December 2025, 23:59 CET
Apply here: https://www.imprs-idi.org/home/application
Application steps:
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Review the list of open PhD projects on the IMPRS-IDI website and identify those matching your interests.
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Prepare your documents, including CV, academic transcripts, motivation letter, and contact information for referees.
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Submit your application through the official IMPRS-IDI online portal before the deadline.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online interviews between February and March 2026. Final offers will be made shortly after the interview round, and selected candidates are expected to start between June and December 2026.
For detailed eligibility and project information, visit the official IMPRS-IDI website.
Why Apply
This PhD program is one of Europe’s most respected training opportunities for young scientists in the biomedical field. It combines rigorous research training with professional development and networking on an international scale.
The IMPRS-IDI provides doctoral students with a strong foundation in both scientific and transferable skills, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for diverse careers in research, innovation, and leadership.
If you are passionate about infection biology and immunology and want to train in a collaborative and innovative environment, this is an exceptional opportunity to launch your scientific career.
Deadline: 10 December 2025, 23:59 CET
Apply now: https://www.imprs-idi.org/home/application
Final Note
The IMPRS-IDI 2026 PhD program offers a rare chance to conduct cutting-edge research while developing as an independent scientist in an international and multidisciplinary setting. Start your journey toward a research career that can make a global impact — apply today and join the next generation of biomedical innovators.
For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth.
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