Duration of the PhD

The targeted duration of a student’s thesis research is three years. Upon consultation with the steering committee, the duration can be extended, but it should not exceed four years except in cases of personal hardship or based on scientific necessity.

After successful completion of the Ph.D. degree, students can be given the opportunity to stay at the host institution during a wrap-up phase. The decision is made on an individual basis by the Steering Committee. The purpose of the wrap-up phase is to complete open research projects or as an interim employment before their finding an appropriate postdoc position or other employment. The duration of the wrap-up phase is limited to a maximum of 12 months.
For general information about doctoral education at the Max Planck Society, please also visit: https://www.mpg.de/doctoral_students.