Your timeline to start an exciting research career

The IMPRS program is managed by the IMPRS office in collaboration with the two IMPRS Spokespersons and the members of the Graduate Committee. We currently have 57 students from 24 countries, and 20 faculty members (from MPI-IE and from the University of Freiburg). We are also very proud of our growing Alumni group, which comprises 131 graduates.

One of the distinctive aspects of our program is a rotation period. Students spend one month each in three different laboratories before starting their PhD project. This is an important step towards identifying a suitable laboratory for their PhD thesis, as it allows them to experience three distinct lab environments and provides further insight into particular research topics. The rotations are also a chance for group leaders to ascertain which student will be the best fit for their groups. Finally, this rotation phase enhances communication and networking within the Institute.

After the rotation period, our fellows join the lab in which they will carry out their PhD work. The PhD project constitutes the core of the scientific training. Our students benefit from the supervision of the respective group leader, the interactions within the laboratory and collaborations within and outside the MPI-IE. The progress of all IMPRS students is regularly monitored by their thesis advisory committees (TACs).

IMPRS students also participate in a broad curriculum that complements their laboratory training. This additional training program covers three major aspects - advanced scientific training, transferable/soft skills and networking. In particular, we offer courses that relate to:

• Advanced scientific methods e.g. bioinformatics, statistics, imaging
• Critical analysis of scientific literature
• Scientific writing
• Scientific Presentation
• Good Scientific Practice
• Career Development
• Funding Opportunities

We strongly encourage the participation of our students in the annual PhD retreat organized by the PhD representatives. Furthermore, we support students' attendance atregional symposia and international scientific conferences. Students also have the possibility to learn German and to obtain advice in planning their future care.