Biozentrum PhD Fellowships 2025 at University of Basel in Switzerland (Fully Funded)

The Biozentrum PhD Fellowships at the University of Basel are a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for ambitious young scientists worldwide. This program in Basel, Switzerland allows fellows to explore different research groups through lab rotations before selecting where to complete their PhD, combining academic freedom with strong mentorship and funding support.

Eligibility

• Open to international applicants from any country
• Must hold (or be about to receive) a Master’s degree (MSc) or equivalent.
  • Exceptional candidates with a four-year Bachelor’s degree (typically from non-Bologna systems) may qualify for a fast-track Master’s as part of the fellowship
• Applicants must not already be enrolled in a PhD program or hold a PhD employment contract at the University of Basel at the time of application decision.

Program Dates/Location 

• Application Deadline: October 12, 2025 (for Winter call)
• Interviews: January 12–16, 2026
• Decisions: End of January 2026
• PhD start: March–September 2026
• Location: Basel, Switzerland, at the Biozentrum of the University of Basel.

Program Benefits

• Full funding for the entire PhD, covering living costs, research expenses, and more
• Flexible lab rotation system, work in at least two different labs before selecting your final PhD group
• Annual personal allowance for conferences, books, or equipment
• Annual study trip to a city associated with Siemens
• Access to scientific meetings and networking with current fellows and alumni
• Career support: help with CV, postdoc applications, and travel funding for interviews at the end of PhD

Research Areas

Visit here to find the wide range of different research fields provided by the University of Basel.

Required Documents

• The application form is filled out completely.
• Electronic copies of the following documents uploaded as PDF files:
  • CV
  • Bachelor’s degree diploma
  • Bachelor’s degree transcript/mark sheet
  • Master’s degree diploma **
  • Master’s degree transcript/mark sheet
• A minimum of two reference letters have been received.
  • Reference letters must be requested through the portal by providing the details of at least two referees (usually faculty members).
  • Reference letters from colleagues or postdocs are discouraged

Application Process 

1. Visit the Biozentrum’s official application portal and apply during the Winter call
2. Submit your documents and indicate interest in a variety of research groups
3. Applications are evaluated, and the top 20–30 candidates are shortlisted
4. Interview Week in Basel:
   • Travel and accommodation are covered.
   • You present your research (10-min talk + 20-min Q&A).
   • Rotate through 8–10 labs, meet faculty, interact with current fellows, attend dinners, and enjoy a cultural visit in Basel
5. Final decisions follow shortly after interviews. If selected, you begin your PhD within six months