General

1. What kind of graduate programmes are offered by the GGL?
2. What is my advantage to participate in graduate programmes as opposed to performing my doctoral project (dissertation) without the additional teaching?
3. Is English the only spoken language in the graduate programmes?

Research

How can I select the research topic for my dissertation?

Teaching

1. How much time is spent on teaching?
   
2. What kind of teaching is offered in the graduate programmes?

Application

1. When can I apply for the graduate programmes of the GGL?
   
2. What are the costs of the programme?
   
3. Can I get a stipend?

What kind of graduate programmes are offered by the GGL?
GGL offers programmes of its own in the various Sections (see there) and also specialized programmes in associated Research Training Groups and the PhD-Programme of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. Note that different application dates may apply for these special associated programmes.

What is my advantage to participate in graduate programmes as opposed to performing my doctoral project (dissertation) without the additional teaching?
To date, it is not a must but a privilege to participate in special graduate programmes. Usually, students are particularly selected for these programmes. If admitted, they have unusual support and opportunities for experiences in scientific cooperation. In these programmes, exceptionally enthusiastic students meet exceptionally motivated teachers!

Is English the only spoken language in the graduate programmes?
Yes, all teaching is in English. Foreigners with fluent English can therefore take full advantage of these programmes. They are advised, however, to make early use of courses of German, since this will permit them to communicate freely with their social environment.

How can I select the research topic for my dissertation?
Usually, projects are announced by the specific graduate programmes at regular intervals. If you presently do not find such announcements, you may contact faculty members of the GGL and ask for coming projects. Before doing so, you may search for their publications in PubMed. If you are in Giessen or nearby, make an appointment with the faculty member of interest.

How much time is spent on teaching?
The GGL provides a  three year doctoral curriculum. In most sections you spend 80-100 hours per year in lectures, seminars and courses. This amounts to three hours per week during teaching terms. Practical courses are usually offered as full day events. The teaching is tailored mostly to your research interests.

What kind of teaching is offered in the graduate programmes?
Typically, seminars are held once a week, practical courses one or two weeks per year, and one retreat per year with special guests and your progress report.

When can I apply for the graduate programme of the GGL?
Vacancies in the GGL are advertised each semester. Contact this website regularly! For advance planning, you may also contact individual faculty members whose work you find interesting.

What are the costs of the programme?
On an international scale, payments to the university (tuitions) are very low. They follow university regulations and may amount to a total of 1500 Euro per year. These costs do not include accommodation. Most students stay in privately rented rooms or flats.

Can I get a stipend?
Yes, you may. Actually, most students in the GGL and its associated graduate programmes are supported by individual stipends. You should ask your future supervisor for opportunities. Stipends may range from 500 to 1000 Euro per month. Some students are also paid for mini-jobs in teaching (Hilfskraft). We provide more information about funding here.