iRTG limits2vision PhD Positions 2026 in Germany | Fully Funded

iRTG limits2vision PhD Positions 2026 in Germany are now open for international applicants who are eager to pursue groundbreaking research in neuroscience and vision. This unique program goes beyond a traditional PhD, offering a cross-border research experience in both Germany and France. Backed by leading experts in ophthalmology and neuroscience, the initiative provides 17 fully funded PhD opportunities beginning in January 2026. It is co-hosted by the University of Tübingen in Germany and the Sorbonne Université in Paris, two globally recognized institutions with state-of-the-art research facilities.

Through the iRTG limits2vision program, candidates will explore cutting-edge questions on how the retina manages energy and processes visual information. The project is supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Université franco-allemande (DFH-UFA), ensuring strong financial and academic backing. Students benefit from structured mentoring, mobility grants, and exposure to interdisciplinary labs, preparing them to become future leaders in vision and neuroscience research. This is an outstanding opportunity for those who aspire to advance their careers in an innovative and international academic environment.

Benefits

The fully supported scholarship package awarded to successful candidates in the iRTG limits2vision PhD program is intended to foster their academic and professional development. The money goes toward:

• Complete financial assistance in the form of a stipend or work contract, in accordance with French and German laws, guaranteeing that students can devote all of their attention to their studies.
• A structured PhD training program with professional mentoring, career development workshops, and advice from top neuroscientists and ophthalmologists.
• Students can obtain practical research experience in a multicultural setting through international mobility options, which include required secondments at the partner institute in Paris or Tübingen.
• This financing package makes limits2vision PhD positions one of the most appealing possibilities in Europe for students who seek to combine cutting-edge research with worldwide academic exposure.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must have a Master’s degree (or its equivalent) in
  • neuroscience,
  • biochemistry,
  • genetics,
  • data science, or
  • a similar discipline
• Show that you have a solid academic background in either neuroscience or cell biology.
• Demonstrate expertise in fields like data science, computer science, genetics, or biology (an advantage).
• Demonstrate fluency in English (C1 or above);
• Proficiency in German or French is preferred but not required.
• Be prepared to work at the partner institution for a long period of time while conducting research overseas.

Required Documents for iRTG limits2vision PhD Positions 2026

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Certificates
• Transcripts
• References

How to Apply?

• Compile all required documents into a single PDF file.
• Submit your complete application via the limits2vision application portal.
• Make sure to submit your application before the deadline: October 5, 2025.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview, including a brief presentation of their MSc thesis.
• Final selection is based on interview performance and alignment with the research program.
• Successful candidates will start their PhD on January 1, 2026.
• For any questions, contact Dr. Emanuela de Luca at [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The iRTG limits2vision PhD Positions 2026 offer 17 fully funded opportunities in Tübingen and Paris, focused on retina research. Open to master’s graduates, with English as the working language, the program provides mentoring, mobility, and structured training for a successful doctoral career.