PhD Thesis

Please check before inquiring about potential doctoral candidacy whether you have prior approval based on your personal and professional background. All information can be found on the website of the Graduate School of the department. In addition, detailed information on the process of a doctoral candidacy are summarized here. 

Preparations

The independent search for a doctoral thesis topic is an essential part of the doctorate, in which we are willing to provide support. If possible, the topic should fit our research focus in order to enable professional proximity and exchange with colleagues at the chair.

The preparation for a doctoral candidacy should contain a synopsis which includes 3-5 pages on the fundamental research question. The synopsis will then be discussed in further detail in a personal meeting where an appropriate work plan and schedule will also be discussed. Here you will find a helpful book for the creation of such synopses.

The financial security of the PhD candidate must be secured during the candidacy. This can be accomplished with a position as Research Assistant, if an opening is available, or through scholarships. If a scholarship application has a high likelihood of being successful it will be supported through a personal and professional assessment.

The dissertation normally should be completed as a cumulative PhD; more information can be found in the current version of the doctoral regulations.

Procedure

Please send your request for a doctorate in writing to Mrs. Quaiser (sonja.quaiser@fau.de), outlining the desired topic and your motivation. Please attach your current curriculum vitae to the short letter.