Max Planck doctoral positions in computer and information science

The application period is open. Please apply between September 1 and December 31, 2025.

Overview

To qualify for the program, students must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in computer science (or a related field) and have an outstanding academic record. We especially encourage applications from students who wish to explore research across the CS spectrum before committing to a topic and advisor.

Students normally start their graduate studies at the Saarland Informatics Campus in Saarbrücken. While taking courses, they have the opportunity to explore research in different areas as part of immersion labs at different MPIs and universities. Latest in the 4th semester, they take the qualifying exam and start work with their chosen research advisor(s) at any of the participating MPIs or universities.

Why choose  CS@max planck ?

• Before committing to a research topic, admitted students have the opportunity to  explore different areas  across the full spectrum of computer and information science. After committing to a group, students may continue to  collaborate  with other groups throughout the program.
• All admitted students are offered  full financial support .
• There are opportunities to  transfer technology  developed as part of graduate research with .

Admission

Admission to the program is highly competitive. A Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree in CS or a closely related field from a top-tier institution of higher education is required. Applicants should have an outstanding academic record (at or near the top of their class), proficiency in spoken and written English, and strong letters of recommendation from their past academic advisors or work supervisors. Prior research experience is welcome but not required.

Application Procedure

Applications are accepted only through the online application system. You will need to provide the following material :

You need to submit a complete application before we can process it. (The website displays missing fields in red.) Completed applications can be updated subsequently, e.g. to add an additional reference. We request references only for those applicants that pass a first round of review, i.e., we do not request references automatically.

Life in Germany

Living and Working in Germany

The booklet Living and Working in Germany from the Max Planck Society has most of the important information regarding visas, health insurance and medical care, finding and renting an apartment, and public transportation. It also includes useful checklists for what you need to bring and what you will need to take care of initially.