The Graduate School of Life Sciences (GSLS)
The Graduate School of Life Sciences is a joint initiative of the Faculties of Biology, Medicine, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, Physics, and Human Sciences (Psychology). The school was founded in 2006 and operates under the umbrella of the University of Würzburg Graduate Schools (UWGS).
The GSLS prepares doctoral researchers for successful careers in academia and industry. Several world-class research institutions have joined forces to offer doctoral researchers interdisciplinary research projects at the forefront of science and a curriculum tailored to their individual needs. Among the participating institutions are the Biocenter, the Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research (IZKF), the Research Center for Infectious Diseases (ZINF), the Rudolf Virchow Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging (RVZ), the Institute for Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), and the Helmholtz Institute for RNA-Based Infection Research (HIRI). The school’s concept was supported by the Excellence Initiative of the German federal and state governments over two funding periods. Since November 2019, the graduate school has been funded by the Bavarian state and the University of Würzburg. The GSLS is composed of five sections specialising in different aspects of the life sciences and offers a three-year doctoral study programme culminating in either a PhD or a German Dr rer nat degree.
Biomedicine
The biomedicine section is involved in the study of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Research efforts focus on the analysis of target proteins at different levels of biological organisation. Ultimately, the goal is to explore new strategies for diagnosis and therapy. This section places particular emphasis on tumour biology, cardiovascular sciences, molecular biosciences, and developmental biology.
Infection and Immunity
The infection and immunity section represents an internationally recognised major research focus within the University of Würzburg with firmly established interdisciplinary collaboration between different faculties. The scientific programme comprises research on infection, RNA-based infection, immunomodulation, and anti-infectives.
Integrative Biology
The integrative biology section aims at a cross-taxon approach to the understanding of complex biological phenomena and integrates all levels of biological organisation. The hallmark of research is the combination of organismic, evolutionary, and molecular biology utilising a wide array of methods.
Neuroscience
Neuroscience is one of the most rapidly developing areas in the life sciences. The neuroscience section brings together expertise in system physiology, behavioural neuroscience, molecular biology, molecular structure and function, organic and pharmaceutical chemistry, and bioinformatics.
Clinical Sciences
Research in the clinical sciences section aims at translating target molecule identification into new diagnostic and therapeutic venues to provide novel treatment and prevention strategies in clinical settings.
Participating faculties
Participating research centres
All services as well as activities and events are offered in English.
Career coaching & support
The main programme at the GSLS is the PhD / Dr rer nat programme for students holding a Master's degree in a life science discipline.
For students of medicine, the GSLS offers a structured and research-oriented doctorate (Dr med) in order to achieve greater integration of basic medical research and patient care.
Furthermore, we offer the possibility that doctors who have already obtained a medical doctorate can also obtain a PhD if they are qualified.
Founded in 1402, the University of Würzburg is one of Germany's oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher education. With a rich history spanning over six centuries, it has been a beacon of knowledge and innovation. The university's commitment to excellence is reflected in its diverse range of faculties, including Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Human Sciences, Catholic Theology, Mathematics and Computer Science, Medicine, Philosophy, Physics and Astronomy, Law, and Management and Economics.
Renowned for its strong scientific profile, the University of Würzburg is part of the U15 group of research-intensive German universities and a member of the Coimbra Group, which includes some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. The university's research spans a wide range of disciplines, from natural sciences to humanities and social sciences. This breadth is exemplified by its numerous research centres, such as the Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Rudolf Virchow Center for Experimental Biomedicine, and the Center for Nanosystem Chemistry.
Würzburg is proud to have nurtured a distinguished community of alumni and faculty, including 14 Nobel Prize Winners. Notable scientists who have conducted groundbreaking research here include Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, who discovered X-rays in 1895, and Klaus von Klitzing, who discovered the Quantum-Hall Effect. The university's commitment to innovation is further demonstrated by its affiliated research institutes, such as the Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research and the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research.
The University Hospital of Würzburg is another cornerstone of the university's excellence.
In the 1990s, the university began founding cross-faculty research centres, which opened up new research areas and possibilities for innovative degree programmes. These interdisciplinary centres, such as the Research Center for Infectious Diseases, have become an internationally prominent trademark of the University of Würzburg.
Numerous collaborative research centres, research training groups, and research units, funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), have greatly contributed to the university’s high standing in the scientific community.
The University of Würzburg is strongly committed to the advancement of junior academics. In 2004, the university established its graduate schools to provide doctoral candidates with the appropriate resources and facilities to continue and enhance their education.
Discover the University of Würzburg, where tradition meets innovation, and become part of a vibrant academic community shaping the future. Visit the University of Würzburg page for more details.
Nestled in the heart of Germany, Würzburg is a city that beautifully blends rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Located along the picturesque banks of the Main River, Würzburg is renowned for its charming old town and scenic beauty, making it an ideal place for students to live and study.
Würzburg's central location ensures easy accessibility. The city is approximately 120 km east-southeast of Frankfurt am Main, one of Germany's major financial hubs, and about 110 km west-northwest of Nuremberg. It is also well-connected to other major cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, allowing students to explore Germany and beyond with ease.
The university's campus is situated in the heart of the city, featuring many buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens like the Fürstengarten Marienberg and the Hofgarten, the campus offers peaceful retreats and stunning views. The nearby Franconian wine country provides opportunities for scenic vineyard hikes and delightful wine tasting tours.
The campus itself is a vibrant and diverse community, showcasing a mix of modern and historic architecture. Highlights include the iconic University Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the beautiful Botanical Garden, founded over 320 years ago. The university's commitment to sustainability is evident in its green spaces and energy-efficient buildings.
Würzburg's student-friendly atmosphere is further enhanced by a wide range of leisure activities. From cosy cafés and lively pubs to sports facilities and outdoor adventures, there is always something to do. The city's safe and welcoming environment makes it an ideal place for international students to feel at home. Discover the charm and opportunities that Würzburg has to offer. For more information, visit the city of Würzburg'a website.
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