Our Biozentrum PhD Fellowship Program is aimed at early-career researchers who want to work at one of the world’s leading life sciences institutes. Located in the heart of Basel and just a short walk from the Rhine, the Biozentrum offers a modern research environment and excellent scientific infrastructure.
Fellows benefit from close supervision and an international community, with researchers from more than 40 countries. Basel’s vibrant life sciences ecosystem is another major advantage: With its many pharmaceutical companies and biotech start-ups, the region offers a wealth of career opportunities.
Find the lab that suits you best
One of the program’s special features is its rotation system. At the start of the fellowship, you do not have to commit to a particular research group or project. Instead, you work in at least two labs before deciding where you would like to pursue your PhD. This gives you the opportunity to get to know different teams and find out which group and research topic are the best fit for you.
“For me, the greatest advantage is the rotation-based system, which is quite unique,” says current fellow Alexander Kuznetsov. “You can work in two or three labs before deciding where you want to pursue your PhD. That’s great because a PhD takes four years, and so much depends on the relationship with your supervisor.”
Up to ten fully funded fellowships
The fellowships are fully funded by the program. Applications for the current call are open until October 18, 2026. Up to ten fellowships are awarded each year, based solely on academic excellence.
“The PhD Fellowships are an attractive way for us to actively recruit outstanding junior researchers and top international talent to the Biozentrum,” says Program Director Prof. Marek Basler. However, not all ten fellowships are necessarily awarded every year, reflecting the program’s rigorous selection process.
Since the program was launched in 2007, more than 100 PhD students from around 30 countries have completed a fellowship, contributing to the Biozentrum’s young and international community. Currently, 45 PhD Fellows are conducting research at the institute.
If you have any questions about the application process or the fellowship program, the PhD Student Office team will be happy to help.
Interested? Apply here.