CISPA & University of Stuttgart Germany PhD Scholarships in Software Engineering, AI & Security (Fully Funded)
Are you passionate about software engineering, programming languages, artificial intelligence, and security? The Software Lab at CISPA and the University of Stuttgart is inviting applications from highly motivated individuals for funded PhD positions in one of Europe’s leading research environments.
What Makes the Software Lab Unique?
- Emphasis on quality over quantity
- International team and culture of collaborative research
- Opportunity to work with visiting professors from Berkeley, CMU, UCLA, KAIST, and others
- Strong focus on real-world applicability of research
- Flexible working conditions with support for diversity and inclusion.
Degree Level
- Degree: PhD awarded by the University of Stuttgart
- Research affiliation: CISPA – a world leader in cybersecurity and software systems
- Working language: English (no German required)
Available Subjects
Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.
- Software System Engineering
- Cyber Security
- Artificial Intelligence
Why Apply for a PhD in Software Engineering at CISPA?
CISPA – Helmholtz Center for Information Security and the University of Stuttgart offer a collaborative, cutting-edge research environment that bridges academia and real-world innovation. Led by Prof. Dr. Michael Pradel, the Software Lab focuses on building reliable, efficient, and secure software systems using the latest advancements in:
- Large Language Models (LLMs) for software repair and bug detection
- Program analysis (static and dynamic)
- Automated testing and differential testing
- AI-powered software reasoning tools
- Real-world systems in Python, Java, C/C++, JavaScript, and more
Benefits
- Benefits: 30 paid vacation days, health insurance, and potential internships at Google, Microsoft, IBM
- Real-world impact: Contribute to projects like Chrome, Scipy, Java Standard Library, and more
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold or expect a Master’s degree in Computer Science or related fields
- Be passionate about high-quality academic research
- Have strong coding skills and interest in large-scale software projects
- Be comfortable with technical writing and presentations in English
- Be open to mentoring undergraduate students
- Have a long-term vision and persistence for deep research
Recent Achievements & Publications
- ACM SIGSOFT Distinguished Paper Awards (2025, 2023)
- Tools like RepairAgent, ExecutionAgent, Testora, TreeFix, and DyLin
- Research published at top conferences: ICSE, FSE, ISSTA, OOPSLA, MSR
Application Procedure
How to Apply?
To apply, send your CV and transcripts to:
Applications accepted year-round. Positions will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are identified.
Final Note
If you're looking for a high-impact PhD opportunity in Europe with strong industry connections, world-class mentorship, and a commitment to solving real-world software challenges — this is your chance.
Apply now to join the Software Lab at CISPA and the University of Stuttgart.
