Max Planck Fully Funded PhD Positions in Quantum Materials 2027

The Max Planck Graduate Center for Quantum Materials (MPGC-QM) is inviting outstanding graduates from around the world to apply for multiple fully funded PhD positions across leading research institutes in Germany.

The programme brings together researchers from five Max Planck Institutes to investigate quantum materials through cutting-edge research in physics, chemistry, mathematics and computer science. Doctoral projects offer opportunities to explore the properties and behaviour of advanced materials, with access to world-class research facilities, individual supervision, mentoring and structured doctoral training conducted in English.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Interview Process
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineDecember 8, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorMax Planck Institute
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• Vibrant research environment with access to a large number of world-class research facilities and cutting-edge research projects
• A modern, English-speaking structured PhD program
• Fully funded positions, no tuition costs and additional funding for scientific meetings and trainings
• Individual supervision and mentoring by research scientists who are leaders in their respective fields

Requirements

• Applicants should hold an MSc (or equivalent degree) with a strong background in physics, chemistry, mathematics or computer science, and have some knowledge of solid-state science, excellent English language skills and a drive to pursue their PhD in an international and multidisciplinary setting.
• Outstanding candidates with a first-class four-year BSc degree (or equivalent degree) are eligible to apply for the fast-track option.

Selection Process

• After the submission deadline, all applications will be assessed by a panel of members of the Graduate Center. In a second step, a selection committee composed of several Principal Investigators participating in the Center will prepare a shortlist of candidates who then will be invited for our annual selection symposium. The symposium will be held at a central location in Germany, and will include short talks by the candidates as well as introductory talks by PIs about their institutes and research groups.
• The candidates further will be interviewed by several PIs, and can visit one or more institutes before or after the symposium depending on their and their potential supervisors’ interests. This format will no only give the prospective students an opportunity to present themselves, but also to learn about the diverse research activities offered by the Max Planck Institutes involved in the Graduate Center. Successful candidates will receive an offer to join the Graduate Center.

Application Documents

In the form you will be asked to upload the following documents:

• a CV with complete description of your academic career,
• your degree certificate and transcripts of courses taken and grades obtained,
• a cover letter describing your motivation for applying to the Max Planck Graduate Center for Quantum Materials (brief statement under 4. Research Interest, max. 1000 charcters and, if needed, additionally under 7. Additional Information longer statement of max 1 page)

Please make sure to have these documents ready as one merged pdf file. If you would like to submit further documents, please add them to the same pdf file. You will only be able to upload a single file as an attachment to your application.

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Only applications submitted through the online application portal can be considered.

For more information, kindly visit the Max Planck webpage.