Overview

Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology aims to understand the nuts and bolts of how stem cells and their progeny generate complex organisms. Dresden has a strong core of basic scientists working on a number of different models including invertebrates, vertebrates and organoids. In particular, we integrate molecular, cellular and physical approaches with evolutionary and developmental biology to understand a basic principle of life: the intricate process originating with gametogenesis, to the emergence of a complete body. Our tools used in this diverse field include cutting edge genomics, microscopy, nano-technology and modelling.

Key facts

The Dresden campus has a strong core of basic scientists working on a number of different model organisms including fly, fish, newt and mouse.

Molecular and cellular approaches at TU Dresden are integrated with evolutionary and developmental cell biology to understand how the differentiation of stem cells and the behavior of their progeny function to build a complete body.

The insights obtained within the Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology research area feed extensively into other programs in Dresden – particularly Regenerative Biology and Biomedicine – to facilitate applied and translational science.

Programme Structure

Research clusters include:

Gene regulatory mechanisms of neocortex evolution
Organization of cytoplasm across space and time
Neural Development and Regeneration
Development and Regeneration of the Vertebrate Brain
Self-organization of living matter
Functional Genomics & Genome Surgery
Proliferation and Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells
Physics of Embryonic Self-Organization and Morphogenesis
Organization and Dynamics of Plasma Membrane Protrusions: From Cell Biology to Regenerative Therapy

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 42 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-10-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-05 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

90

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

67

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IELTS

6.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dresden, Germany

Disciplines

Biology Molecular Sciences View 20 other PhDs in Molecular Sciences in Germany

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

90

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

67

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You have a truly excellent academic record and previous research experience.
You are highly committed to scientific research, and you have the potential and eagerness to conduct demanding research projects.
You have a distinctive proficiency in textbook knowledge of the relevant scientific disciplines.
You are proficient in the English language. Provision of TOEFL or IELTS results and GRE examination results is recommended but not mandatory.
You hold (or anticipate to receive before taking up the PhD thesis work) a Master’s degree* in one of the life sciences (e.g. Biology, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Biomedicine – incl. Medicine – Physics/Biophysics, Bioengineering, Biomaterials, Biotechnology) Mathematics, or Computer Science
Your degree course ended/ends with a thesis

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

Free
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

Free

Additional Details

There are no tuition fees for participating in the PhD program.

Living costs

Dresden

Germany

756 - 1107 EUR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Cell, Molecular and Developmental Biology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Key facts

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

EU/EEA Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Dresden

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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