International PhD Scholarships at the University of Bonn: Join RTG 2873 on Drug Innovation
The University of Bonn invites highly qualified international candidates to apply for two fully funded PhD scholarships as part of the Research Training Group RTG/GRK 2873, supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) under the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP). This prestigious program is centered around the forward-looking theme:
“Tools and Drugs of the Future – Innovative Methods and New Modalities in Medicinal Chemistry.”
Program Overview
RTG 2873 provides a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment for international doctoral researchers aiming to advance the next generation of therapeutic strategies. The research program focuses on the development of novel drugs and tools through four major thematic areas:
- Targeted Protein Degraders (PROTACs)
- Macrocyclic Drugs
- Biopolymers as Tools and Drugs
- Drug Conjugates
Each doctoral candidate will work on a project within one of these areas under the supervision of internationally recognized scientists in disciplines including:
- Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Chemical Biology
- Structural Biology
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
- Pharmaceutical and Cell Biology
The program is housed at the University of Bonn, one of Germany’s leading research institutions, and is designed to provide comprehensive scientific and professional training.
Key Features of the Program
The RTG 2873 program goes beyond traditional doctoral education. It offers:
- A structured qualification program with workshops, seminars, and advanced training courses
- Supervision and mentoring by experienced principal investigators
- A lab exchange program with leading international partner institutions
- Active participation in conferences and opportunities to publish in high-impact journals
- A strong international and interdisciplinary academic environment
Scholarship Details
The scholarships are funded through the DAAD GSSP and are available for a maximum of four years, starting in February 2026 or later. Each scholarship includes:
- Monthly stipend of €1,300
- Country-specific travel allowance
- Combined health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Study and research allowance
- Rent subsidy and family allowance (if applicable)
- Fully funded German language course, especially beneficial for long-term integration
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarships are open to highly qualified international applicants, particularly those from developing and emerging countries. To be eligible, candidates must:
- Hold an excellent Master’s degree (or equivalent) in pharmacy, pharmacology, (medicinal) chemistry, biochemistry, drug research, or related fields
- Have not been resident in Germany for more than 15 months prior to the application deadline
- Have graduated no more than six years before the application date
- Not have completed a PhD previously
RTG 2873 particularly encourages female candidates and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Applicants with disabilities and equivalent qualifications will receive preferential consideration.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to submit a complete application package in English as a single PDF file via email to: [email protected].
The application package must include:
- Cover letter
- Completed RTG 2873 application form
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Copies of academic certificates and transcripts
The application deadline is 31 October 2025. Late applications may be considered under exceptional circumstances. For more information, please visit DAAD official website.
Selection Procedure
The selection process consists of two stages:
- The RTG 2873 leadership team will review all applications and nominate two candidates for the DAAD GSSP scholarships.
- The selected candidates will then formally apply to the DAAD, which will make the final decision and handle the scholarship administration.
Summary
The RTG 2873 PhD program at the University of Bonn represents an exceptional opportunity for international scholars aiming to work at the forefront of drug development and medicinal chemistry. Combining rigorous academic training with global collaboration, it prepares doctoral researchers to tackle major challenges in modern therapeutic innovation.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the awarding organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
