The Biozentrum Fellowship Program at the University of Basel supports outstanding candidates selected through competitive open calls for the Biozentrum Basel International PhD Program. Fellows join a rotation-based research environment and receive additional support designed to strengthen scientific training and career development.
Key information
- Programme type: International PhD fellowship (Biozentrum Basel International PhD Program)
- Selection: Competitive open call; limited number of fellowships per call (up to 10 candidates)
- Training model: Rotation-based selection of a research group
- Research areas: Life sciences and related fields (e.g., biology, physics/chemistry/computer science applied to biology)
- Location: Basel, Switzerland
- Language of instruction: English (application materials typically required in English)
- GRE/GMAT: Not indicated as required
- Start dates: Confirmed in each open call announcement
Programme structure
The fellowship is integrated into the Biozentrum Basel International PhD Program and follows a research-led training approach. A rotation phase helps fellows explore potential supervisors and research groups before selecting their long-term PhD project.
Research themes (examples)
- Macromolecular function: how proteins and other biological macromolecules work at the molecular level
- Regulatory circuits: wiring and control of biological regulation mechanisms
- Complex biological systems: general principles and dynamic interactions in living systems
Rotation-based group selection
- Fellows complete research rotations to evaluate fit with potential supervisors and projects.
- After rotations, candidates select a research group for their doctoral work.
Doctoral development (typical components)
- Research training within the host lab
- Scientific communication and professional development activities
- Progress monitoring through the PhD supervision and assessment process
Exact module/course requirements and the number/timing of rotations are confirmed in the official programme and open call documentation.
Academic requirements
You must hold (or be able to complete soon) a university degree that qualifies you for PhD admission at the University of Basel (typically an MSc and equivalent).
Candidates with a four-year Bachelor degree (often outside the Bologna system) may be eligible to apply and complete a Master’s programme on a fast-track at the University of Basel as part of the fellowship pathway.
English requirements
TOEFL® IBT Schedule TOEFL®
Other requirements
Application documents
- Electronic copies of your diploma/MSc degree with grades and transcripts (PDF)
- CV or scientific résumé (maximum one page, PDF)
- Contact details of two referees from your previous academic environment (usually faculty members)
Additional notes
- GRE/GMAT and GPA thresholds are not indicated as mandatory in the available programme information.
- Application deadlines and the exact start date are published for each open call.
Student insurance (via Studyportals partner)
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.
Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
Get your student insurance now
Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Basel and/or in Switzerland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Post-study work options in Switzerland (general guidance)
Switzerland’s post-study work possibilities depend on your residence status and the type of permit you hold after graduation. In many cases, international graduates may be able to apply for a residence permit to work in Switzerland if they meet the eligibility conditions and can secure an appropriate job offer.
Typical eligibility factors
- You must have completed your PhD programme at an eligible Swiss institution.
- You generally need to apply within the required timeframe after graduation.
- A relevant job offer and compliance with Swiss immigration requirements are usually required.
- Permit rules can vary based on your nationality and the current Swiss immigration framework.
What to check before applying
- Confirm the exact permit category available to PhD graduates in Switzerland at the time you graduate.
- Check whether your programme completion date and your current residence permit allow you to transition to a work permit.
- Verify requirements with the cantonal migration authority responsible for Basel.
Because immigration rules can change, always verify the latest guidance with the Swiss authorities and your university’s international office.