IMPRS-IS doctoral program 2027: funded PhD positions in AI and intelligent systems
IMPRS-IS offers funded doctoral positions in AI, machine learning and robotics in Stuttgart and Tübingen. Apply by 15 November 2026 for the 2027 round.
The International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) is now taking applications for its 2027 hiring round. It is a doctoral program run by the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, the University of Stuttgart and the University of Tübingen. The school says it is the largest doctoral program of its kind in the Max Planck Society.
Admission is competitive. Selected doctoral researchers are funded through an employment contract under the rules of the Max Planck Society and the two universities. The program has guaranteed funding through at least 2030. Accepted applicants can start in February 2027 or later.
Research areas include artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, robotics, human computer interaction, haptics, control systems, data science, computer graphics, computational cognitive science, neuroscience and soft robotics. Applicants need a master's degree, finished or expected soon, in a field such as computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics or neuroscience. The school explicitly encourages women to apply.
You apply through the online portal. You need a CV, unofficial transcripts, a two page motivational letter, the names and emails of three referees and a list of the faculty you want to work with. Non native English speakers add evidence of English skills. GRE scores and extra documents such as a thesis are optional. Referees must send their letters before the deadline.
The deadline is 15 November 2026, end of day Anywhere on Earth. Faculty and staff review all applications, and a selected group is invited to personal interviews in Stuttgart and Tübingen. IMPRS-IS accepts doctoral applications once a year.
Quick answers
Who pays for the interview trip?
IMPRS-IS pays the travel costs for applicants invited to interviews in Stuttgart and Tübingen, so it asks people to apply regardless of their financial resources.
Can I choose my supervisor?
Yes. You can name your preferred research areas and faculty in the application. Associated faculty can only be a second supervisor, so you also need a full faculty member as supervisor.
Can I use AI tools to write the application?
Only to improve language, grammar and style. AI tools must not be used to generate ideas, concepts or original content.