Ulm University PhD Scholarships in Explainable Medical AI 2026

Applications are now open for doctorates beginning from January 2027. Ulm University is seeking highly skilled individuals who are passionate about interdisciplinary research in medical artificial intelligence (AI). KEMAI offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of computer science and medicine, developing cutting-edge AI technologies to transform medical diagnostics and treatments. If you are driven by innovation and eager to contribute to societal change through advanced research, you are invited to join the dynamic team!

Table of Content

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

Summary

• Application DeadlineNot Specified
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUlm University
• School to studyUlm University
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

KEMAI aims at revolutionizing medical diagnosis and treatments through artificial intelligence. When you embark on a PhD journey within KEMAI, you will have the following benefits:

• Attractive Funding: KEMAI PhD students benefit from fully funded positions for up to four years with a competitive E13 salary, as per the German public sector pay scale. This funding ensures financial stability, allowing students to focus entirely on their research. The E13 salary not only covers living expenses but also provides additional benefits such as health insurance and social security.
• Societal Impact: Research in medical AI within the KEMAI project has a profound societal impact by significantly improving the accuracy and efficiency of medical diagnostics and treatments, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and advancing global healthcare standards.
• World-Class Education: Ulm University has consistently ranked as the best young German university, achieving top positions in the Times Higher Education (THE) 150 Under 50 and QS University Rankings. In the THE World University Ranking 2022/23, it was placed within the top ten percent globally, showcasing its excellence in citations, third-party funding, and internationalization.
• Structured Program: KEMAI is integrated into the university’s very successful Graduate School IGradU. IGradU was established in 2007 and, hence, has a long-standing tradition of supporting doctoral researchers on their way to a doctorate. The school provides a well-structured qualification program, which is complemented by KEMAI with components to specifically qualify doctoral researchers for interdisciplinary research in medical AI.
• High Quality of Life: Ulm offers a high quality of life, evidenced by top placements in multiple quality of life rankings, and has recently been rated as most liveable German city by the renowned Prognos City Ranking 2024. Its international city agenda, together with its historical charm and modern amenities, provides a welcoming atmosphere for people from around the globe. Nestled along the picturesque
• Career Opportunities: A PhD from Germany opens doors to numerous career paths in both academia and industry. Ulm not only offers an attractive academic environment with opportunities for postdoctoral research, but the region’s thriving industry, including prominent companies like Daimler, Continental, Bosch, and Zeiss, provides excellent job opportunities for PhD graduates.

Requirements

To be eligible for the international KEMAI PhD program, you should have:

• Master’s degree: A degree completed with above-average success and overall grade of 2.0 or better (according to the German grading system) in a master’s program or a university program with a minimum standard study period of four years at a domestic or foreign university is required. The field of study should align with your KEMAI research focus. Eligible fields include, but are not limited to: Computer Science, Medicine, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Engineering, Philosophy, Physics, Mathematics, or other related natural science disciplines.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for success in the KEMAI project. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to tackle complex research questions and develop innovative solutions.
• Passion for research and innovation: A passion for research and innovation in medical AI is crucial. Candidates should be motivated to explore new frontiers in medical technology and contribute to the advancement of healthcare through artificial intelligence.
• English proficiency: Sufficient English skills are necessary to effectively communicate within the international research community. Candidates should have a minimum English proficiency level equivalent to B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), or an IELTS score of 6.0, or a TOEFL iBT score of 80.

Application Documents

All applications should include the following documents:

• CV: A detailed curriculum vitae highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills.
• Cover Letter: Explain your motivation for applying to the KEMAI project and specify two projects you are interested in from the list provided or pitch your own project idea.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts of your academic records, including information on the grading system.
• Certificates: Certificates of your academic degrees (bachelor and master).
• Final Grade: Please add information on your final overall grade according to the conversion tool for the “Modified Bavarian formula”. The programme requires the German grade 2 or better, which in general equals a CGPA of 3 or higher, depending on the grading system of your university.

Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Eutopia PhD Co-tutelle Call

Application Deadline

How To Apply

For more information, kindly visit the Ulm University webpage.