Graduate School for Biological Sciences at the University of Cologne

The Graduate School for Biological Sciences (GSfBS) is an umbrella organisation that unifies an increasing number of specific international graduate programmes in Cologne's Life Sciences.

The GSfBS offers a Fast Track Masters/Doctoral programme for outstanding Bachelor students and a Core Programme (CP) for graduate students in all areas of biology. GSfBS researchers are centred on the molecular analysis of biological processes and work in several collaborating institutions:

• University of Cologne: Mathematics and Natural Science faculty, Medical faculty
• Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research
• Max Planck Institute for the Biology of Ageing

In our PhD programmes students are guided by a thesis committee. Students write a proposal for their PhD project within three months after the project has started. Research proposals and annual oral and written reports are discussed with the thesis committee. During retreats or symposia, research progress is presented to the participants of the programme. An annual, international symposium (Cross Roads in Biology) which is organised exclusively by students of the programme, provides great opportunity to discuss their research with renowened scientists. They learn how to organise a meeting, how to network and to present themselves to the scientific community.

For a career in science, students need not only excellent results and skills, but also the ability to present their work orally and in writing, as well as to deal with a complex academic and social environment. The GSfBS supports the students' development into mature and independent scientists. Career options outside the academia are also a part of the programme. Please visit our website for an updated info on our special course offers.