Biozentrum PhD Fellowships at the University of Basel offer an exceptional opportunity for outstanding young scientists to pursue their doctoral studies in Molecular Life Sciences. This prestigious fellowship program is fully funded, providing an annual allowance, support for study trips, and additional benefits. Open to talented students from all nationalities, it enables researchers to join one of Europe’s leading institutes for advanced scientific training and innovation.
With the Biozentrum PhD Fellowships, scholars gain access to cutting-edge facilities, world-class mentorship, and a stimulating research environment at the University of Basel, Switzerland. The program encourages ambitious students to push the boundaries of knowledge in fields such as biology, biomedicine, and molecular sciences. By combining financial support with academic excellence, the fellowship ensures that students can focus entirely on their research while building a strong foundation for a successful scientific career.
Fellowship Summary
- Country: Switzerland
- Host: University of Basel
- Study Level: PhD
- Deadline: 12 October 2025
Benefits of Biozentrum PhD Fellowships
- An annual allowance to attend meetings, and acquire books or a computer.
- An annual study trip to a city with ties to Siemens.
- A personal certificate of acceptance into the fellowship program.
- Financial support for travel to postdoctoral interviews at the end of the Ph.D. thesis.
Eligibility for the Biozentrum PhD Fellowships Program
- Applicants must hold or expect a university degree that qualifies them for a PhD program at the University of Basel (MSc and equivalent).
- In exceptional cases, outstanding students with a 4-year bachelor’s degree, typically from outside the Bologna system, are also eligible to apply.
- These will be able to complete a Master’s program on a fast track at the University of Basel as part of their fellowship.
Documents Required
- Electronic copies of your diploma/MSc degree with grades and transcripts as PDF files
- A CV or scientific résumé (maximum one page, pdf format)
- Names and contact information of 2 referees from your previous academic environment (usually faculty members). The referees will be contacted automatically and will be asked for a reference letter.
How to apply for Biozentrum PhD Fellowships?
- Confirm you hold or expect to obtain a degree qualifying you for a PhD at the University of Basel.
- Apply online via the Biozentrum’s BIPED portal during the Winter Call (4 August – 12 October 2025).
- Submit your CV, transcripts, certificates, and referee contacts.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to a one-week interview in Basel with travel and accommodation covered.
- Final decisions are announced by January 2026.
- Successful candidates start between March and September 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A concise overview of the Biozentrum PhD Fellowships: It’s a fully funded, highly competitive PhD opportunity offering lab rotations before choosing a thesis group. Includes generous annual allowances, study trips, strong career support, and a structured Winter Call timeline for applications.
What is unique about the Biozentrum PhD Fellowship compared to other PhD programs?
The fellowship isn’t tied to a specific lab or project. Instead, fellows carry out at least two rotations in different labs at the Biozentrum—each lasting at least two months—before choosing where to do their PhD, giving a flexible and exploratory start.
Who funds the Biozentrum PhD Fellowships?
Originally supported by the Werner Siemens Foundation, funding for new fellows has been provided by the University of Basel since 2010. This ensures sustained financial backing for the entire duration of the PhD fellowship program.
Can the fellowship cover the full duration of my PhD?
Yes. The fellowship offers full funding for the entire PhD, meaning fellows receive the necessary financial support throughout their doctoral studies without being linked to a particular project or group.
What additional benefits does the fellowship provide besides funding?
Fellows receive an annual allowance to attend meetings or purchase books or a computer, plus an annual study trip to a city linked to Siemens. They also benefit from networking events, career support, and postdoc-interview travel funding.
How competitive is the selection process?
Very competitive. Fellowships are awarded based on excellence, with up to ten fellows selected each year. The program prioritizes highly talented, ambitious, and motivated candidates from around the world through a selective and merit-based process.
What does the interview process involve after shortlisting?
Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview week at the Biozentrum. During that time, they present their research, meet group leaders, visit labs, engage with current PhD students, and get a feel for the environment—all with organized travel and stay.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
To apply, candidates must hold or expect a degree qualifying them for a PhD at Basel (typically an MSc or equivalent). In exceptional cases, strong applicants with a four-year Bachelor’s from non-Bologna systems can join via fast-track Master’s inclusion.
When is the Winter Call for applications and what are key dates?
The Winter Call begins August 4, 2025, and closes October 12, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by late November, interviewed mid-January 2026, with acceptance decisions by end of January. Rotations may begin between March and September 2026.
What kind of research fields does the Biozentrum offer for PhD projects?
The Biozentrum covers a diverse range of molecular life sciences. You can explore different fields across rotations and then commit to a lab that aligns best with your interests and goals once you settle into your PhD work.
Does the fellowship help with post-PhD career or postdoc planning?
Yes. Fellows get help crafting their CV, preparing postdoc applications, and support for travel to postdoc interviews. Faculty on the Program Committee actively assist in career development and transitions beyond your PhD.
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