FAQ

For the first cohort of PhD students (Ec=m² Scholars), we advertise 10 funded PhD positions distributed across the four research areas SYN, SPEC, COMP and MAT, starting in October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Please check the details of the application procedure here in due course.

In addition, about the same number of Scholars with alternate funding will be associated to Ec=m² and enjoy the same benefits as the funded Scholars. The latter are selected by the primary supervisors themselves and can join anytime. Feel free to contact any of our principal investigators to explore this option. 

Besides of cutting-edge highly interdisciplinary research on covalent bonding, a core concept of the chemical sciences, we offer a variety of outreach activities, workshops, secondments and lab rotations as part of our structured qualification program. Ec=m² alumni will be known for their holistic approach to problem solving, their international attitude and collaborative spirit. Their unique expertise in an authentic bottom-up approach towards the design of molecules and materials will make them very attractive for employers across all physical sciences and engineering.

Ec=m² Scholars are curiosity-driven individuals that have excelled in their respective degree course in Chemistry, Material Sciences, Physics or a related discipline. In most cases they will have completed their Master of Sciences degree, but there are options for fast-track entry directly after the Bachelor degree for particularly brilliant graduates. 

We are looking for open-minded, talented and energetic candidates who want to explore the boundaries of today’s knowledge on covalent bonding and its implementation for the design and preparation of tomorrow’s materials.

You can indicate your favorite supervisors in your application in order of preference. The selection procedure involves the Steering Committee of Ec=m² as well as the indicated PIs. It consists of a preselection from the pool of submitted applications followed by interviews (online or in person) and is concluded by offers to the successful candidates.

No, clearly not. The working language in all participating groups is English and it is entirely possible to get along in your private life as well. Nonetheless, we encourage all Ec=m² Scholars to acquire a working knowledge of German and provide substantial support to this end.

Saarland is the smallest of the German area states and is located in the southwest of Germany right on the border to France. Its French-German history accounts for the open-minded and internationally oriented stance of Saarlanders. Typically, newcomers find it easy to build a social network and friendships. 

Saarbrücken is known for its excellent food, its friendly bar scene and summers with plenty of activity along the River Saar.