DKFZ International PhD Program

The DKFZ International PhD Program lays the foundation for a career path as a world-class researcher for the Center’s over 500 PhD students.

The image features a split design, with one half showing a stylized blue immune cell and the other half depicting a detailed human eye. This juxtaposition symbolizes the connection between the immune system and vision.

We warmly invite you to apply to join the DKFZ and our many distinguished scientists in cancer research!

The next application deadline is 15 December 2025 and the online system to submit your application will open at the end of October. Find out more by following the links below!

Further Information

Program Overview
Admission Requirements & How to Apply
Joint Training Programs & Collaborations
Life as a DKFZ PhD Student

Curious about life as a PhD Student at the DKFZ?

International PhD Program at the DKFZ in Heidelberg

Watch our video to hear firsthand from current PhD students and discover the unique opportunities the DKFZ International PhD Program offers!
At the DKFZ, Germany’s largest biomedical research institute, over 500 PhD students in 100+ research groups are dedicated to unravel the causes and mechanisms of cancer development and to identify groundbreaking tools for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
 

Sunidhi – Research Program Functional and Structural Genomics

A young woman with long black hair smiles at the camera, standing outdoors with a scenic view of greenery and water in the background. She wears a brown top and appears confident and approachable, representing the international PhD program.

“At first, moving to a new country and working on an unfamiliar challenge was both exciting and daunting, but being surrounded by brilliant minds in a welcoming, supportive and inclusive environment has made all the difference. DKFZ’s culture nurtures innovation, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration, transforming every challenge into an opportunity for growth.” 

PhD Student in the Division of Genetics and 2024 PhD Student Representative

Contact DKFZ International PhD Program

The DKFZ International PhD Program is managed by Dr. Lindsay Murrells. 

If you aren't able to find the information you're searching for on our website, please contact us by email!

An image split into two halves: on the left, a close-up of a blue immune cell, and on the right, a detailed human eye. The text below reads "Seeing Beyond. Research for a life without cancer. International PhD Program."
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