About this opportunity
ELLIS is a Europe wide network of exceptional PhD programmes in artificial intelligence, bringing together Max Planck Institutes and top European universities. The 2027 call is open now, and candidates apply directly to the programme rather than to a single supervisor, which makes it easier to be matched with the right advisor across the network.
With close to two hundred advisors across the member institutions, the research spans machine learning theory, deep learning, computer vision, robotics and the responsible use of AI in society. A distinguishing feature of ELLIS is its cross institutional structure: PhD students benefit from a shared community, joint seminars and access to advisors well beyond their home institute.
The call is open to graduates of any nationality, including Nigerian and other African citizens, provided you hold or are about to complete a strong bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Funding is provided by the host institution, and G-Research scholarships are available through 2028 for students in data intensive areas.
Two dates matter. The application itself closes on 31 October 2026, anywhere on earth. Your two referees then have until 25 November 2026 to submit their recommendations, so invite them early rather than at the last minute.
What you receive
- Fully funded PhD position with tuition coverage and a living stipend through the host institution
- Supervision from a network of close to two hundred advisors across Max Planck Institutes and leading European universities
- Access to the ELLIS community, joint seminars and cross institutional collaboration
- G-Research scholarships available through 2028 for data intensive research projects
- No application fee
Who can apply
- Open to applicants of all nationalities, including Nigerian and other African applicants
- A completed or near completed university degree in computer science, mathematics, physics or another quantitatively strong field
- A demonstrable record of academic excellence and research potential
- Proficiency in English, the working language of the programme
Who should not apply
- Applications without two academic references submitted by the referee deadline cannot be considered
Documents to prepare
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Statement of research interests
- Contact details for two referees
- Proof of English proficiency if requested by the host institution
How to apply
- Read the full call and the list of participating programmes at https://ellis.eu/news/ellis-phd-program-call-for-applications-2026
- Create an applicant account at https://apply.ellis.eu/applicant_registrations/ and complete the online form before 31 October 2026
- Upload your documents and name two referees who can report on your academic work
- Make sure your referees submit their recommendations by 25 November 2026
- Wait for matching and interview invitations from the host institutions
Selection process
- Applications are reviewed by the ELLIS selection committees across the member institutions
- Strong candidates are matched to advisors and invited to interviews with the relevant host programme
- Final offers follow the timelines published by each host institution
Sources and verification
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Questions applicants ask
Is the PhD position funded?
Yes. Funding, including tuition coverage and a stipend, is provided by the host institution according to its own terms. G-Research scholarships are additionally available through 2028 for eligible data intensive projects.
Do I need a background in computer science?
Not necessarily. Applicants from mathematics, physics and other quantitatively strong disciplines are considered, provided they can show the analytical foundation needed for AI research.
Do I need an admission offer from a university before applying?
No. You apply through the central ELLIS application, and matching with a host institution happens during the selection process.
What happens if my referees miss the deadline?
Applications are only complete once both recommendations arrive by 25 November 2026. Invite your referees as soon as you start the application so there is time for follow up.
Important disclaimer
Nextali researches and curates useful opportunities to make discovery easier. Before applying, verify every timeline, requirement, fee and application link on the official provider website. Do your own research into the organisation, its background and the authenticity of the offer. Nextali does not guarantee selection, funding or the conduct of third party providers.
