About the Scholarship
The International Max Planck Research School on Earth System Modelling (IMPRS-ESM) invites outstanding master’s graduates to apply for its fully funded PhD programme in climate and environmental sciences. Hosted by the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (MPI-M) in Hamburg, Germany, this interdisciplinary doctoral programme brings together talented researchers from around the world to study the Earth system using numerical modelling, data analysis, and quantitative methods. It supports global academic mobility and fosters high-level training in atmospheric processes, ocean-climate dynamics, sustainability, and Earth system science. PhD scholars benefit from expert supervision, international networking, and a 3-year contract with full social benefits. Applications are especially encouraged from candidates passionate about climate change, sustainability science, and data-driven research.
Scholarship Details
- Scholarship Name: International Max Planck Research School on Earth System Modelling (IMPRS-ESM)
- Institution/Provider: Max Planck Institute for Meteorology (MPI-M)
- Administering Organization: IMPRS-ESM Office, MPI-M
- Location: Hamburg, Germany
- Level of Study: PhD (Doctoral Level)
- Field of Study: Climate Science, Environmental Science, Earth System Modelling
- Mode of Study: Full-time
- Duration: 3 years (fully funded)
- Start Date (Expected): 1 March 2026 (or later by agreement)
- Application Mode: Online
- Scholarship Type: Fully-funded (Merit-based, international)
Supported Fields of Study
- Atmospheric Processes and Climate Change
- Earth System Coupled Dynamics
- Ocean Climate Physics and Variability
- Economics and Sustainability Sciences
- Environmental Modelling and Numerical Simulations
- Data Science in Climate Systems
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- Academic Qualifications:
- A first-class MSc degree (with thesis) in physics, meteorology, oceanography, geophysical sciences, ecology, computer science, engineering, mathematics, economics, or political science
- A combined study workload of at least 300 ECTS across BSc and MSc programmes
- Students currently completing their MSc thesis are also eligible to apply
- Nationality/Residency: Open to applicants of all nationalities
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS recommended but not strictly required)
- Age Limit: Not specified
- Enrollment Status: Incoming PhD candidates
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in Earth system modelling, numerical simulations, statistical analysis, or climate data handling
- Strong motivation for interdisciplinary climate research
- Programming or data science skills (e.g. Python, R, Fortran, or similar)
Not Eligible
- Applicants without a completed or ongoing MSc thesis
- Candidates not meeting the 300 ECTS study requirement
- Reference letters without Registration ID
Financial Coverage / Funding Benefits
- Tuition Fees: Fully covered
- Monthly Stipend/Allowance: Approx. €2,000 (net), sufficient to cover living costs in Hamburg
- Travel Grant: Not specified, but international candidates are supported
- Accommodation Support: Not directly provided, but local support is available
- Health Insurance: Fully covered as part of the employment contract
- Books & Materials: Not specified
- Additional Perks:
- Dedicated scientific advisory panel
- Research training workshops and skill development
- Support from IMPRS-ESM office team
- International academic environment
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities
- Conference participation opportunities
Scholarship Benefits
- Tuition Coverage
- Living/Monthly Stipend
- Health Insurance
- Academic Training & Skill Workshops
- Research & Conference Development Support
- Mentoring and Supervision
- Networking with Global Researchers
Key Responsibilities (if applicable)
- Conduct doctoral research within Earth system science
- Participate in IMPRS-ESM academic and training events
- Regularly present research progress
- Collaborate across interdisciplinary teams
- Submit and defend a doctoral thesis within 3 years
Application Process
How to Apply
Application Mode: Online registration and electronic document submission
Official Link: https://mpimet.mpg.de/en/career/imprs-esm/application
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- CV or résumé
- Personal statement / motivation letter
- Two reference letters (submitted via prescribed form)
- Proof of language proficiency (if available)
- MSc thesis summary or current progress
- Passport copy or national ID
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 1 July 2025
- Application Deadline: 15 September 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Reference Letters Deadline: 20 September 2025
- Interview Invitations Sent: Early November 2025
- Interview Dates: 20–21 November 2025
- Result Notification: December 2025
- Programme Start Date: 1 March 2026 (or by agreement)
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: Max Planck Institute for Meteorology: Home
- Official Notification: Max-Planck-Institute for Meteorology: IMPRS-ESM
- Apply Here: click here
📧 Contact for Queries: Email: imprs@mpimet.mpg.de
Stay updated for more scholarships and academic careers: HigherJobz
