About This Opportunity

HEIBRiDS (Helmholtz Einstein International Berlin Research School in Data Science) is a joint doctoral programme between TU Munich, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, and several Helmholtz research centres in Berlin. The programme is specifically focused on data science, AI, and machine learning applied to scientific challenges in health, climate, energy, and matter. Fully funded PhD positions are offered annually to outstanding international candidates.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Hold or be completing a Master's degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, statistics, bioinformatics, or a closely related quantitative field
  • Strong programming skills and quantitative background
  • Open to international applicants of all nationalities — Ghanaian and African candidates are eligible
  • Identify a potential research supervisor from the HEIBRiDS faculty list and reach out before applying

What You Get / Benefits

  • Full funding for the entire PhD programme (typically 3 years)
  • Access to world-class Helmholtz research facilities alongside TU Munich's academic excellence
  • Interdisciplinary training at the intersection of data science and major scientific domains
  • Based between Berlin and Munich — two of Germany's most vibrant cities for technology and research

How to Apply

  • Visit heibrids.berlin to review open PhD positions, supervisors, and application guidelines
  • Browse the faculty list and identify potential supervisors whose research aligns with your interests
  • Reach out to potential supervisors with a focused research statement before the official application deadline
  • Complete and submit your online application with transcripts, CV, research statement, and references
  • Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, typically conducted virtually for international applicants

    • Tips

    • HEIBRiDS is explicitly focused on data science for scientific applications — this is not a general computer science PhD. Your application should demonstrate both technical data science competence and interest in applying it to a specific scientific domain (health, climate, energy, etc.).
    • Identifying and contacting a potential supervisor before applying is strongly encouraged — supervisors with a strong interest in your profile are far more likely to support your application through the review process.
    • Germany does not charge tuition fees for PhD students — your full funding covers your stipend and research costs, making this one of the most financially accessible elite PhD routes available.

    ⏰ Deadline: Typically January (Annual) — check heibrids.berlin for current open positions and exact deadline dates for each call.