Questions & answers about the IMPRS-gBGC

In general, what is an International Max Planck Research School?

There are many International Max Planck Research Schools, all in a specific research area, and all of them operate independently from each other. Click here to learn more about working with the Max Planck Society.

1. Are there any fees?

No, costs for the IMPRS are completely covered by the German government. The enrolment at Friedrich Schiller University Jena is optional and further information is provided here.

Costs for consumables and equipment are covered by the host lab.

2. How does the funding for doctoral researchers look like?

Doctoral researchers with a Master's or Diploma degree receive either a scholarship (A) or a contract (B).

(A) The stipend is provided for a duration of four years with monthly payments of 1,300€ (free of tax), payments towards health, accident and personal liability insurance cover, travel allowance and annual research allowance. Additional financial support of about 500€ can be provided.

(B) Funding contracts are concluded for a duration of three years and can be extended. Payment is based on the Collective Wage Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD) and currently amounts to a minimum of €3,000 gross. Payments towards statutory health, accident and personal liability insurance cover will be deducted.

3. How high are living costs in Jena?

Living costs in Jena are about 900 euros per month for a single person, depending on the rent paid for accommodation.

4. What about health insurance?

Health insurance is mandatory for all researchers and family members accompanying them. There are two kinds of health insurance in Germany: statutory and private health insurance. Which one you can choose depends on whether you will be working in Germany on the basis of a stipend or a contract. The IMPRS office will help each member to obtain appropriate coverage.