Integrated Graduate School Solvation Science (iGSS)

Established in 2013 as integral part of the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV, the Integrated Graduate School Solvation Science (iGSS) supports more than 80 graduate students in their early research careers of solvation science. The school aims to combine high-profile research and early scientific independence along with internationalisation within an inclusive, gender- and diversity-sensitive culture. Top-level Master’s and Bachelor’s degree holders in chemistry, physics, biology, biochemistry or engineering are encouraged to apply to our educational training programme where cutting-edge research is conducted within our 50+ RESOLV affiliated PI and PS groups located in the Ruhr region. Within RESOLV, more than 200 scientists at six institutions, spanning experimental chemistry, theory and chemical engineering,  investigate how solvents play an active role in the control, mediation and regulation of chemical reactions and processes. RESOLV’s mission stretches from fundamental research to the translation into applications such as green technologies or smart sensors. We offer two training programmes: Track II for students with a top-level Bachelor’s degree and Track I for top-level Master’s degree holders. Track I begins with the traditional research course of studies: a three-year structured graduate programme culminating in a doctoral degree from the appropriate department at Ruhr University Bochum, TU Dortmund University or University of Duisburg-Essen. Track II starts with one year of preparatory courses, beginning in October. In addition to the standard research project, the training plan provides a structured curriculum of lectures, an international internship, colloquia and workshops, which are all centred on areas of solvation science. Fundamental elements of the study programme are the annual Graduate School Solvation Science workshops and summer schools that foster interdisciplinary interaction among students and faculty. We are always happy to welcome new members year-round, and we review applications every month. Track II applicants should plan to apply by 15 May to begin preparatory courses in October. Competitive stipends are available! Please visit our website for the latest information on financial support for PhD positions and the application process. On the site, you can also find the latest information on doctoral project options within our research groups as well as the departmental affiliation of each PI/PS.