International
PhD Program
SEEING BEYOND.
The DKFZ International PhD Program is a structured program providing its doctoral researchers 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.
We warmly invite you to apply to join the DKFZ and our many distinguished scientists in cancer research!
The next application deadline is 24 April 2025.
Click here for more information on the selection process and how to apply.
© dkfz.de
The DKFZ is Germany’s largest biomedical research institute and has an international and dynamic work environment, providing students with access to state-of-the-art research facilities and exceptional resources. More than 500 PhD students in over 100 divisions and research groups carry out research to unravel the causes and mechanisms of cancer development and to identify novel tools for diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
“When I found out about the international PhD Program at the DKFZ, I knew this was where I wanted to be: Cutting edge cancer research in one of the most renowned institutes in Germany in a beautiful and multicultural city is the perfect combination. My PhD studies at the DKFZ are a unique experience not only academically but they also enable my personal growth and cultural exchange.”
(Antonino from Argentina, PhD student at the DKFZ)
Perhaps you, too, would like to work at the cutting edge of cancer research amongst leading scientists from the field? This website hopes to give you a taste of what it is like to be a member of our International PhD Program. If you are interested in joining our scientific community after reading this website, we are looking forward to receiving your application!
If you are a bachelor student or you've just started your master's studies, please take a look at our programs for undergraduate students!