At IMB, we explore the molecular biology of the nucleus with an overarching focus on gene regulation, epigenetics & genome stability

The ISS 2023 call is now closed - we will open the next call in February.

Apply to the ISS

Are you thinking of applying to the ISS? We recruit via a call for applications opening each year in January or February. You will find an overview of our recruitment procedure below

Eligibility Criteria

To apply to the ISS you must provide the following:

  • Fully completed application form submitted before the relevant deadline

  • University studies in a life science related subject for a minimum of three years by the beginning of the ISS; since the programme has a strong hands-on focus, you should also have previous research experience

  • At least two reference letters; at least one of your referees should have supervised you in a research project

  • High level of both spoken and written English

  • The ISS is an international programme, thus you must be an international student who is not living or studying in Germany at the time of the ISS

How to apply to the ISS

We want to attract the brightest, most creative and ambitious undergraduate students in the life sciences from all over the world. We receive around 300 applications for each call which opens every spring (see Registration & Application). Below you will find the steps you need to take in order to be admitted to the ISS.

Step 1: Registration

Please provide us with your contact details and names of at least two referees, who should be senior scientists that know you well.
Your nominated referees will receive a personalised link to our standard reference form and upload page. You will be notified by email when a reference letter in your support has been submitted.  

Please note: We will not be able to consider applications until at least two reference letters are received. Therefore, please ensure that you contact your referees in advance to inform them of your intention to apply to the ISS and make sure they are able to provide a reference in time.

Step 2: Application

Once you have registered, you will receive a link to the online application form. Please provide the requested information and documents here. The application form must be completed in English.  

Step 3: Selection of ISS Participants

After a thorough evaluation of all applications, we invite the best candidates to the ISS in Mainz (17 July - 25 August). During the ISS, you will learn from renowned scientists, work on exciting research projects and network with the IPP PhD student community and the IMB postdocs. You will also be expected to give a short presentation about your ISS project.