The Vienna Biocenter PhD Programme


Within the PhD Program supervisor and students closely collaborate. picture: Point of View

The aim of this programme is to provide one of the best scientific educations in Europe. With supervision provided by outstanding scientists, programme students will answer important biological questions and work towards scientific independence throughout the course of their PhD thesis. To reach this aim, student and supervisor closely collaborate in project design. The student’s progress is annually presented and critically discussed within the Monday Seminar series and thesis committee. Students are further expected to extend their education beyond their own field of research by attending seminars and lecture series at the Biocenter institutes.

The Campus Vienna Biocenter originates from the close relation-ships between private industry and the life science research facilities of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna. Different disciplines of biological and medical sciences have been brought together in one location and provide a creative and excellent environment for training and research in modern biology. The Max F. Perutz Laboratories (former four life science departments of the University of Vienna and the Department of Medical Biochemistry of the Medical University of Vienna), the privately funded Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), the Institute of Molecular Biotechnology (IMBA) and the Gregor Mendel Institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (GMI) take part in the Vienna Biocenter PhD Program. Apart from joint seminars, lecture courses and collaborations, the international PhD programme is one important activity of all Biocenter institutes. Through this programme, PhD students are selected among highly qualified applicants from all over the world and are given the opportunity for training and work in different areas at the forefront of modern biology. Emphasis is placed on academic and technical excellence. The PhD salaries are at an internationally competitive level and are granted for up to 4 years. The successful candidates enter the doctorate programme of Molecular Biology and obtain a Dr.rer.nat. degree is from the University of Vienna. Scientists and PhD students from over 30 different nations are working together at the Vienna Biocenter, and hence English is the language used for communication and writing of the PhD thesis.

For more information please visit the official website of the Vienna Biocenter PhD Programme.

Vienna

In Europe that is gradually growing together, Vienna is located in the very center. The city's century long heritage as an imperial capital is still evident and attracts millions of visitors every year. But nowadays Vienna is a very lively cultural center, famous for classical as well as modern music, exhibitions, theatre, opera, and café life, to mention but a few. Since Vienna is home to many international organizations, the cultural life is also very enjoyable for non-German speaking people (e.g. English cinemas, theatre, international festivals). The geographical location of Vienna makes it ideal for many kinds of outdoor activities, such as skiing, hiking, climbing, cycling and water sports. In addition, the proximity of several other European countries allows weekend escapes abroad. As far as quality of life is concerned, Vienna is one of the safest capitals in the world. Public transport is extremely efficient, but for those that prefer, it is also possible to get everywhere by bike.

Students’ perspective


“In general, the atmosphere at the IMP is reasonably sociable, but intense. There is pressure to work hard, but the amount of pressure varies from lab to lab. The service facilities are excellent and in good condition. The relationship between the labs are friendly, people are helpful.”


“Vienna is a beautiful city to live in; lots of parks, sports facilities, easy to get around, and great for skiing too.”

 


“The university can be quite relaxed, but people can work hard all the same. You can build up a good life outside the lab as well, and it’s a lovely city to live in.”


“When we do get out of the lab, we enjoy Vienna because of its culture, its relaxing atmosphere and its great nightlife.”

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