RESEARCH PHASE (PhD Phase)
Doctoral Training and Curriculum of the MPS of Biomedical AI (BMAI)
Requirements
Applicants to the BMAI PhD program are expected to hold a completed Master’s degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, physics, or a related field. Candidates from the life sciences are also eligible if they have demonstrated strong computational training or significant programming experience during their studies.
Graduation degree
Dr. rer. nat. or Dr.-Ing. awarded by the respective degree-granting university
About the research phase
During this phase, doctoral researchers carry out their PhD project under the supervision of one BMAI Fellow and a complementary secondary supervisor, ensuring strong expertise in both computational and biomedical sciences. To foster interdisciplinary exchange and broaden scientific perspectives, PhD candidates visit the research group of their secondary supervisor during their PhD. PhD candidates are embedded in the international Max Planck School of BMAI network and benefit from close supervision, access to cutting-edge research infrastructure, and collaboration across leading institutes in artificial intelligence and biomedicine.
Summing up what BMAI offers in the research phase
- PhD research supervised by a BMAI Fellow and embedded in an international research network
- Co-supervision ensuring integration of computational and biomedical expertise
- Access to state-of-the-art research environments across participating institutions
- Structured interdisciplinary training in AI, biomedicine, and computational sciences, including soft skill courses
- Recurring one-week schools providing advanced courses and scientific exchange across disciplines, alongside networking opportunities within and beyond the school
- Competitive employment contracts at universities or research institutes covering living expenses
The Max Planck School of Biomedical AI is a doctoral program and does not offer a Master's degree. Applicants are therefore expected to hold a completed M.Sc. (or equivalent) before entering the program. Successful candidates typically have a background in computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, physics, or the life sciences with a strong computational component in their bachelor's and master's education.
The research phase consists of a three-year PhD project supervised by one BMAI Fellow and another fellow as secondary supervisor, ensuring expertise in both computational sciences and biomedicine. To promote interdisciplinary collaboration, doctoral researchers spend at least three months in the research group of their secondary advisor during their PhD.
Central elements of the training are recurring one-week schools held annually. These intensive programs provide advanced courses spanning artificial intelligence, computer science, biology, and biomedicine. One of these annual training weeks also includes the Biomedical AI Symposium, facilitating exchange of ideas and discussion of the latest advances in Biomedical AI with international experts in the field. In addition, BMAI supports annual participation in an international conference, enabling PhD candidates to present their work, engage with the international scientific community, and expand their professional networks beyond the School.
Progress is supported through structured mentoring and regular evaluation. Each student develops an Individual Development Plan (IDP) in consultation with their Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC), defining milestones, training needs, and publication goals. Annual TAC reviews assess research progress, coursework completion, and professional development.
Career Perspectives
Graduates of the Max Planck School of Biomedical AI are uniquely positioned to shape interdisciplinary research at the interface of artificial intelligence and biomedicine. Through outstanding scientific training, an international network of fellows and partners, and dedicated career development activities, they are well prepared for successful careers in academia, industry, and beyond.