For the different sections of the PhD program, the relevant faculty PhD regulations of the University of Basel apply, e.g. those of the Faculties of Science and Medicine. The admission requirements for prospective PhD students are explained below.

Eligibility. The PhD program is open to national and international students who have demonstrated academic excellence (minimum grade 5 out of 6) and have a strong interest in bioethics. The students enrolled in the Program have obtained a Master’s degree either in bioethics, law, medicine, science, public health, philosophy or social sciences. Students with prior education in life and natural sciences would be admitted through the Science Faculty, and those with social sciences, bioethics, and philosophy, or law backgrounds will be admitted through the Faculty of Medicine or other Faculties (Theology, Law, Philosophical-Historical Faculty).

The PhD program aims to enrol up to five candidates per admission cycle in order to keep the number of total students stable at around 20. Eligible candidates must possess: (1) a Master’s degree (MA or MSc) or an equivalent title in Bioethics, Law and Ethics, Public Health, Social Sciences or the Life Sciences; (2) demonstrate academic excellence through outstanding academic grades, presentations at conferences, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and awarded fellowships or scholarships; (3) depict motivation and commitment to their research interests in Bioethics; and (4) English language fluency (C1 Level is the absolute minimum).

The Application Process. All applications will be reviewed by the admission committee at the IBMB and the Governance Board and will be accepted via email before the designated deadline. The following documents compose a complete application: (1) Curriculum Vitae; (2) Copies of academic degrees; (3) Statement of purpose and interests; (4) Two letters of recommendation to be sent directly to the admissions committee (or the provision of names of two referees to be contacted by phone or by email); and (5) Proof of English proficiency. The admission committee will review all applications and short-listed candidates will be invited for an in-person interview in Basel.

Interview. Invited candidates will be interviewed by the admissions committee and the interview will take place in English. The interview process is designed to help the admissions committee make a better evaluation of applicant’s suitability, motivation, and commitment to completing the doctoral program. In cases where the applicant is unable to travel to Switzerland, the interview will take place via teleconference.

Admission. The decision about acceptance will be based on both the written application and the interview.  All applicants will be informed of the committee’s decisions in writing.