Launch your scientific career: HPI offers a stimulating environment for those passionate about research to pursue their doctoral studies. With over 230 successful graduates, HPI provides a strong foundation for launching your scientific career.
For your PhD's journey, we at HPI offer more than just an institutional environment for your research. Find out more about the essentials, benefits and opportunities of a doctorate at the Hasso Plattner Institute.
Student stories: PhD at HPI
First hand experience by Margarita Bugueño, PhD Student Hasso Plattner Institute
Why should you do your Doctorate at HPI
More than just an Institute: To embark on your doctoral journey at HPI, you must be registered at the University of Potsdam. The language of instruction is flexible, allowing you to choose either German or English based on your preference. The requirements for a doctorate at the HPI are based on the doctoral regulations of the joint Digital Engineering Faculty (DEF) of the Hasso Plattner Institute and the University of Potsdam.
For your PhD's journey, we at HPI offer more than just an institutional environment for your research. You'll have access to various opportunities for professional development, equipping you with the necessary tools for a successful future in research or industry.
- Professional Skills Colloquium
- English Conversation Circle
- German courses for international PhD students
- Design Thinking events
- Teaching opportunities
- Diverse research topics in IT Systems Engineering
- Participation in HPI science conferences
- Access to the institute's Datacenter with an extent variety of hardware, architecture and computational ressources
- Regular research colloquia (department-dependent)
- Interaction and workshops with PhD students from HPI Research School branches
- Travel funding for presenting research at international conferences
- Travel scholarships for women in tech conferences (Grace Hopper Celebration, European Women in Technology)
- Access to the Potsdam Graduate School (PoGS)
- Access to the HPI Connect career platform
- Connections to the vibrant Berlin start-up scene
- Work-friendly campus
- Well-equipped offices
- Access to campus sports facilities
- Scholarships through HPI Research School
- Student status with benefits (e.g., Semester Ticket for public transportation)
HPI Research Schools
The HPI Research Schools annually grant new full scholarships to to talented young researchers. Information on the application process can be found here.
Find out moreContact
Explore the Possibilities at HPI: Take the Next Step in your academic Journey. You can find all information about the application process on the Doctorate's application page. learn more
Sabine Wagner
Doctoral Committee Office
Phone: +49 331 5509-220
Mail: office-promotionsausschuss@hpi.de
Expand your mind and the scope of your research. Our Academic Partnerships department offers scholarships and international research projects abroad, for example with Stanford University or MIT – Massachusetts Institute of Technology. learn more
Reach out to our International Student and Scholar Services for a personal consultation to help you understand the process of moving to Germany. Get answers to your questions on immigration, bureaucracy, housing, and insurances. learn more
Jill Grinager
Manager International Student and Scholar Services
Phone: +49 331 5509-291
Mail: office-international@hpi.de
Important links
Research News
Last change: 28/05/2026, Geronimo Förster