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IMPRS for Intelligent Systems 2027: Fully Funded PhD in AI, Robotics and Machine Learning (Stuttgart and Tübingen, Germany)

PhD position

10/25/2026

Deadline: 15 November 2026 (End of Day, Anywhere on Earth) | Location: Stuttgart and Tübingen, Germany | Fields: AI, Machine Learning, Robotics and related areas | Funding: Employment contract

If you want to work on artificial intelligence, robotics or machine learning in one of Europe’s main hubs for the field, the International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) is a strong option. The call for 2027 is open, and applications close on 15 November.

About the programme

IMPRS-IS is an interdisciplinary doctoral programme run by the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems together with the Universities of Stuttgart and Tübingen. It is part of the Cyber Valley initiative and covers cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence, robotics and related fields. Faculty come from the Max Planck Institute and both universities: IMPRS-IS faculty can act as full or co-supervisors, while associated faculty can serve as co-supervisors only.

Funding

Admitted students receive full financial support through an employment contract. The programme is described as having guaranteed funding through at least 2030. Check the application portal for the current contract terms.

Key dates

  • Application deadline: 15 November 2026, end of day, Anywhere on Earth

  • Selection interviews: 18 to 26 February 2027

  • Programme start: February 2027 or later

IMPRS-IS accepts applications once a year, so if you miss this date, the next chance is the 2027 call.

Who can apply?

The programme is open to strong applicants from around the world. A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as engineering, computer science, cognitive science, mathematics, control theory, neuroscience, materials science or physics is typical, though you should check the portal for the exact requirement.

Two points from the school’s application text:

  • Existing PhD students can apply to IMPRS-IS only within the first year of their doctoral studies.

  • Women are explicitly encouraged to apply. The school wants to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented.

What you need to apply

All materials are submitted online through the application portal:

  1. A list of IMPRS-IS faculty you are interested in working with

  2. A two-page motivational letter that explains why you want a PhD at IMPRS-IS and describes the research areas or particular projects that interest you

  3. Reference letters, which your referees must submit by the application deadline

  4. Optional extras: additional documents such as a thesis, a published paper or a project portfolio

The portal will list any further items, such as transcripts and your CV, so work through each tab carefully.

Interviews and travel costs

Shortlisted applicants are invited to selection interviews in February 2027. The school pays interview travel costs, so interested students should apply regardless of their financial resources.

How to apply

Apply at imprs.is.mpg.de/application. For general information about the programme and its faculty, see imprs.is.mpg.de.

Tips for a strong application

  • Start with the faculty list. You’re asked to name the faculty you want to work with, so read their recent papers and choose people whose work matches yours.

  • Make the motivational letter specific. Two pages is short, so name concrete research areas or projects rather than describing your interest in AI in general terms.

  • Brief your referees now. Their letters must arrive by 15 November, so tell them the date and send your materials early.

  • Use the optional documents. A thesis, paper or portfolio can show your research ability in a way a transcript can’t.

  • Check the time zone. The deadline is end of day Anywhere on Earth, so don’t rely on it as an extension. Submit with time to spare.

Want help with your application?

Found a programme that fits? Your mentor can help you sharpen your motivational letter, faculty shortlist and CV before you submit. Book a call to get started.

For more personalized tips or templates contact our team.

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