Focused Research – What Makes a Ph.D. at a Non-University Research Institution Unique?

23 March 2026

Photo: Leibniz-Institut für Medienforschung | Hans-Bredow-Institut/Christiane Matzen / Privat

Verena Albert and Michel-Ruben Glagowski

In Germany, in addition to universities, it is possible to pursue a Ph.D. at numerous non-university research institutions. However, these institutions generally do not have the authority to grant doctoral degrees. This means that their Ph.D. candidates must also apply for admission to a Ph.D. program at a university. We spoke with two doctoral researchers from different non-university research institutions associated with the HRA about the unique aspects of working toward a doctorate at their institutes.

Verena Albert is pursuing her doctorate in communication science at the Leibniz Institute for Media Research │Hans-Bredow-Institut. Michel-Ruben Glagowski is pursuing his doctorate in the field of host-parasite interaction at the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine.

What are the advantages of pursuing a Ph.D. at a non-university institution for you?

Verena: For me, it is incredibly valuable to be able to collaborate and exchange ideas with so many people – there are over 40 researchers and about 15 Ph.D. candidates at the Institute for Media Research, and we interact very regularly. We help each other not only with the content of our work but also with all kinds of challenges we face during our Ph.D. Since teaching isn’t a required part of our work, we can focus entirely on our research.

Michel: In my view, non-university research institutions often have an excellent reputation. Since the work is more research-oriented, there is more time available for one’s own project. The institute is thematically focused on a specific field of research, which attracts leading experts. In this demanding, specialized environment, I appreciate the diverse opportunities for collaboration, also internationally – my advisor values attending conferences and engaging in academic exchange and supports me in doing so. After completing my doctorate, I also see a wide range of career opportunities, which can be an advantage in today’s rather tight job market.

Do you see any particular challenges in pursuing a doctorate at a non-university institution?

Verena: One challenge can be finding suitable thesis advisors. Especially if you didn’t study at the university where you are pursuing your doctorate, you don’t know the professors (and vice versa). Joint seminars offered as part of doctoral programs can be helpful in this regard.

In addition, it can be more difficult to transition to a university after completing your PhD if you lack teaching experience. If you want to keep this option open, you should take the initiative to offer teaching at other institutions, such as universities or private colleges.

What advice would you give to someone considering a PhD at a non-university research institution?

Verena: The opportunities for exchange at an institute are diverse – but it is important not to lose sight of your own thesis.

Michel: Make sure you can work independently as a researcher, since actual results are often expected early on. This also makes it easier to take responsibility for your own project. In addition, you should enquire early about the formal requirements and deadlines for the doctoral program at the university.