DKFZ International PhD Program

The DKFZ International PhD Program is a fully funded, structured program providing its doctoral researchers (PhD students) with tailored mentoring and training in cancer research. The doctoral research projects are conducted at the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg or Dresden, or its partner sites across Germany within the German Cancer Consortium, National Centers for Tumor Disease, the Helmholtz Institute for Translational Oncology and the DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim.

Reflecting the breadth of scientific topics represented within the Program, our doctoral researchers are enrolled in top universities across Germany, pursuing doctoral titles that best suit their scientific expertise. These range from Dr. rer. nat. (natural sciences), Dr. sc. hum. and Dr. med. (human sciences and medicine) to Dr.-Ing. (engineering sciences).

The DKFZ International PhD Program has a lively network of active members, who organize regular scientific networking activities and social events. In collaboration with the DKFZ Career Service & Alumni Relations, the Program offers comprehensive guidance and career development resources, providing a strong foundation upon which our members take their next career step. Our alumni pursue a diverse range of career opportunities in academia and industry.