International Programmes 2026/2027

Collaborative Research Center 1278 PolyTarget – Polymer-Based Nanoparticle Libraries for Targeted Anti-Inflammatory Strategies CRC PolyTarget

Friedrich Schiller University Jena • Jena

Degree
PhD
Course location
Jena
In cooperation with
  • DFG (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft)
  • Universitätsklinikum Jena
  • JCSM (Jena Center for Soft Matter)
  • Leibniz-Institut für Altersforschung: Fritz-Lipmann-Institut e.V. (fli)
  • HKI (Hans Knoell Institute)
  • Leibniz IPHT (Leibniz Institute for Photonic Technologies)
Teaching language
  • English
Languages

Courses are held in English.

Programme duration
6 semesters
Beginning
Only for doctoral programmes: any time
Application periods
This programme has no deadline listed.
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

The goal of the CRC PolyTarget is the development of new strategies for the treatment of infection-triggered inflammatory states, centred on a rational design of tailor-made nanoparticulate drug carriers. Pharmacologically active nanoparticles based on functional synthetic polymers and (modified) biopolymers will be utilised and characterised to address the fundamental questions of targeted nanomedicine from the bottom up. Based on the establishment of polymer libraries and a detailed molecular and morphological characterisation of the nanoparticles, structure-property relationships will be studied to optimise the nanoparticles with respect to their biological and pharmaceutical function.

The main task of the integrated Research Training Group (RTG) is to promote the scientific expertise of the doctoral candidates. The group will aim to broaden the training of doctoral candidates at the university level by providing the opportunity for candidates to participate in the already existing PhD programmes of related training groups in Jena. A visiting scientist programme and short-term scholarships offer additional qualification improvement possibilities.

Course organisation

The programme is intended to be completed in three years, and it contains method courses, scientific colloquia, PhD seminars, CRC retreats, mentoring for female PhD students, and a research stay abroad as well as soft skill courses.

International elements
  • International guest lecturers
Integrated internships

No internships

Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Tuition fees per semester
None
Semester contribution

Approx. 320 EUR per semester. Includes the Deutschlandsemesterticket (free public transport in Germany) and the Jena culture ticket; see details here.

Costs of living

Studying in Jena is tuition-free.

Costs (per month) vary depending on individual circumstances: rent and food: 550 EUR, books and learning materials: 50 EUR, health insurance: 120 EUR, other expenses: 180 EUR, total: 900 EUR.

Funding opportunities within the university
Yes
Description of the above-mentioned funding opportunities within the university

Deutschlandstipendium (application in April each year).

Some programmes offer scholarships. Please consult the specific study programme website.

Academic admission requirements

Graduates with a Master's degree in chemistry, pharmacy, biotechnology or related fields

German language skills
No minimum language level required
English language skills
B2 required/recommended, no proof required
Language requirements exemptions
Please find details on the course website.
Application periods
This programme has no deadline listed.
Submit application via
Please apply via e-mail.
Possibility of finding part-time employment

There are various job opportunities in Jena. You should have at least a good command of German if you want to have a wider choice of jobs. Jobs in which you do not need (much) German are rare, often physically demanding, and not very well paid. In some cases, you may also have to commute to nearby cities. Our Career Point offers advice on finding a job.

Accommodation

Bachelor's and Master's level students may apply for student accommodation (all off-campus, furnished single rooms in shared apartments, rent: 200 to 350 EUR per month, application deadline: 15 July/15 January).

International doctoral candidates have the possibility of applying for a place in one of three university guesthouses. Enrolled doctoral candidates can also apply for a room in student housing.

You can find more information about finding accommodation in Jena here.

Structured research and supervision
Yes
Research training / discussion
Yes
Career advisory services and programmes for future professionals

When applying for internships, part-time jobs or entry-level roles after graduation, the Career Point team at the University of Jena supports Bachelor’s and Master’s students with free events and advisory services. Career talks, alumni events, company visits, workshops on soft skills, intercultural skills, and future skills, and a free interdisciplinary career and job fair enable exchange with employers. Templates, a job portal, LinkedIn and a mailing list provide information on vacancies, event invitations and exclusive offers. Students interested in entrepreneurship can reach out to the university’s K1 Startup Service.

Support for international students and doctoral candidates
  • Welcome event
  • Buddy programme
  • Tutors
  • Specialist counselling
  • Cultural and linguistic preparation
  • Visa matters
General services and support for international students and doctoral candidates

Your academic success is important to us! That is why we are committed to constantly providing good advice and support services. The International Office provides digital onboarding workshops for newly admitted applicants, Welcome buddies support newly arrived students, and the Welcome Days offer many events to help students orient themselves and make new friends quickly. Find all support services here.

The Graduate Academy supports doctoral candidates with personal advice and a mentoring programme.

Friedrich Schiller University Jena

University location

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