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PhD Scholarships at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg

Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) offers a range of PhD scholarships and funded positions, particularly appealing to international students seeking advanced research opportunities in Germany. As one of Germany’s leading research universities, FAU emphasizes interdisciplinary studies in natural sciences, engineering, and life sciences, with a focus on global collaboration. Foreign applicants benefit from dedicated support through the International Office, including visa assistance, orientation programs, and integration services. PhD candidates can access funding via university scholarships, third-party grants like DAAD, or project-based positions, often providing stipends and research budgets. Requirements for non-EU students include a relevant master’s degree and supervisor agreement, with applications processed year-round for many programs. FAU’s commitment to internationalization ensures English-taught options and partnerships worldwide, making it accessible for scholars from all countries to contribute to cutting-edge research in fields like biology and environmental sciences.

Unlock Your Research Potential at FAU

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg welcomes international PhD candidates with scholarships and funded positions in diverse scientific fields. Emphasizing global accessibility, the university offers support for non-EU students, including application guidance and integration programs to facilitate a smooth transition into German academia.

Fields of Study

FAU offers PhD opportunities in various natural and life sciences, with a focus on interdisciplinary research. International students can engage in programs that align with global challenges, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and international collaborations.

Biology

FAU's Department of Biology provides PhD research in molecular biology, ecology, and genetics, often involving international projects on biodiversity and cellular mechanisms. Foreign students benefit from English-language supervision and access to global networks.

Biotechnology

PhD programs in biotechnology at FAU explore bioprocess engineering and synthetic biology, with opportunities for international applicants to join funded labs focusing on medical and industrial applications.

Environmental Sciences

Research in environmental sciences at FAU addresses climate change, sustainability, and geo-resources, attracting global PhD candidates through collaborative projects with international partners.

Earth Science

FAU's earth science PhD tracks investigate geodynamics and paleontology, offering foreign students positions in fieldwork and modeling, supported by EU-funded initiatives.

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These fields reflect FAU's strengths in natural sciences, providing international PhD students with comprehensive research environments and funding options.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for PhD scholarships at FAU requires a qualifying master's degree and alignment with a research group. International applicants must meet specific academic and administrative standards as outlined on the official website.
Academic Qualifications
Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field, with above-average grades. For international degrees, equivalence is assessed via the FAU examination office. Non-EU qualifications may require recognition through uni-assist.
Supervisor Agreement
Candidates need to secure a commitment from a FAU professor willing to supervise their PhD. This involves contacting potential supervisors directly with a CV and research interests prior to formal application.
Funding Confirmation
Proof of funding, such as a scholarship or employment contract, is required for enrollment. International students often apply for positions advertised on FAU's job portal.
Residency and Visa Requirements
Non-EU applicants must obtain a student visa and residence permit. FAU provides support letters upon acceptance to facilitate this process.

Monthly Stipend for PhD Students

FAU PhD positions often include a monthly stipend of approximately 1,500-2,000 EUR (about 1,800 USD), depending on the funding source like DFG projects or university scholarships. This covers living expenses for international students during their research.

Annual Research Funding

Additional annual budgets of up to 5,000 EUR are available for research expenses such as travel, conferences, and materials in funded PhD projects at FAU, excluding salary, to support international collaboration and fieldwork.

Application Process for PhD Scholarships

The application for PhD positions involves finding a supervisor and submitting documents through the university's portal, with ongoing opportunities for international candidates.
  1. Identify a Supervisor: Search for professors in your field via the faculty websites and contact them with your CV, transcripts, and a brief outline of research interests to secure supervision agreement.
  2. Prepare Documents: Gather certified copies of degrees, transcripts, CV, and proof of funding. For non-EU applicants, include passport and visa details.
  3. Submit Application: Apply online through the doctoral degree portal or specific graduate school applications, uploading all required documents.
  4. Enrollment: Upon acceptance, enroll at the Student Records Office with the supervision agreement and funding proof.
For assistance, contact the International Office at [email protected] or +49 9131 85-65155. Deadlines vary by position, often rolling.

Application Deadlines

PhD applications at FAU are typically rolling, with positions advertised throughout the year. For structured programs like graduate schools, deadlines may be in spring (March 31) or fall (September 30) for 2025 intake. Check the official website for specific dates.

Official Website

For more information, please visit the official website:

Contact Information for PhD Admissions and Inquiries

For inquiries about PhD scholarships, reach out via email at [email protected] or call +49 9131 85-65155.
  • Physical Address:
  • Schlossplatz 4
  • 91054 Erlangen
  • Germany

Additional Information

International Student Services

FAU provides extensive support for foreign PhD students, including welcome weeks, German language courses, and buddy programs. The International Office assists with housing, health insurance, and cultural integration to ensure a seamless experience.

Career Prospects

Graduates from FAU PhD programs excel in academia, industry, and research institutions globally. International alumni benefit from strong networks in Europe and beyond, with opportunities in biotech firms and environmental agencies.

Resource Links

Explore more at FAU Doctoral Research and International Services.

PhD scholarship programs and External Funding Opportunities for PhD Scholarships in Agriculture

DAAD Scholarships

DAAD offers funding for international PhD students in agriculture-related fields, with stipends up to 1,200 EUR/month. Eligibility: Master's degree, all nationalities. Apply via DAAD portal. Deadline: Varies, often October.

DFG Research Grants

German Research Foundation provides project-based funding for PhD in environmental sciences, up to 3 years. Eligibility: Proposal with supervisor. Contact: [email protected]. Apply at DFG website.

  • Funding: 1,800 EUR/month plus materials
  • Deadline: Rolling
PhD scholarship programs and External Funding Opportunities for PhD Scholarships in Agriculture

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BiologyBiotechnologyEarth ScienceEnvironmental Sciences