Neurosciences — International Max Planck Research School (MSc/PhD)

Study concept The integrated Master's/PhD programme offers excellent study and research conditions to prepare aspiring young scientists for a professional career in academia or science-related professions in the private or public sector. Study contents In 36 lecture weeks (accompanied by tutorials), 20 methods courses during the first three months of the Master's programme, and three eight-week research projects (lab rotations), students acquire in-depth knowledge in the following subject areas of neurosciences: Molecular Biology, Neurogenetics, Physiology, Neuropharmacology, Neuronal Development, Neuroanatomy, Sensory, Motor and Clinical Neurosciences, Higher Brain Functions, Computational Neurosciences, and Statistics. Professional skills such as good scientific practice, scientific writing, presentation techniques, design of scientific illustrations, and handling of experimental animals are taught in workshops and applied during lab rotations and reporting seminars. In addition, all foreign students can participate in free German language courses, which are optionally offered at different levels as introductory intensive courses and evening courses throughout the study programme. During the subsequent PhD studies, students benefit from the wide range of qualifications (scientific methods courses, professional skills workshops, industry excursions, language courses, other events) offered by the Graduate School GAUSS and the Graduate Centre GGNB. Annual retreats of the Neuroscience programme, the Neurizons student-organised international symposium and regular cultural nights contribute to a close personal and scientific exchange. Counselling and support Newly admitted students receive info letters in preparation of their studies, advising services, and a variety of administrative support as part of a two-week orientation programme prior to their first year of study. Throughout their studies, students receive individual counselling from members of the programme regarding their course of study and the advancement of their skills, interests, and personal development. Awards The Neurosciences programme is regularly evaluated by independent external reviewers and has been rated several times as a model best practice example. Together with the Molecular Biology programme, it received the 2004 prize for excellent support services for foreign students by the Federal Foreign Minister and was awarded the label "Top 10 International Master's Degree Courses made in Germany" by "Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft" together with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in a national contest. The international programme is a joint venture of the University of Göttingen, the University Medical Centre, the German Primate Centre, the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences and the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organisation. Leading scientists of all partners offer research-oriented training across a broad spectrum of modern molecular life sciences with access to their state-of-the art laboratories during methods courses and individually supervised research projects. Intensive course programme in the first year During the first year of research-oriented training, students earn 90 credits (ECTS) in a combination of theoretical and practical modules between October and July: Lectures and Tutorials (October to July) Methods courses (October to December) Short presentations by research groups (October to November) Professional skills (November to January) Research projects / lab rotations (January to June) Master's seminar (March to June) The first year of study concludes with a written and two oral Master’s examinations in August. Integrated Master’s/PhD concept After successful completion of the Master’s examinations, a six-month Master’s thesis (30 credits ECTS) leads to the award of the Master of Science degree concluding the Master’s programme after 18 months. The majority of students continues in the Neu

Course details verified 09 Sep 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source

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Prerequisites

Previous education Bachelor’s degree or equivalent 120 credits (ECTS or equivalent) at the time of application Eligibility: Degree programme in biology, physics, medicine, psychology, or a closely related discipline Selection The online application portal is open for each application round from 15 September to 15 January (start of studies: October). In addition to the information on personal background and motivation and the upload of all relevant documents, the contact details of two reviewers for letters of recommendation should also be provided. The reviewers should be informed by the students in time about the planned application. All applicants will be informed in the second half of January whether they have qualified for the second selection round (15-minute online interviews at the end of January). During a third selection round in mid-February, admission decisions are made on the basis of two personal interviews (30 minutes each). Applications are welcome even if the required degree has not been awarded by the time of application, as long as this will be conferred before courses start in October.

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