PhD Program in Plant Sciences

At the Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center (PSC) we support the plant science research community of the University of Zurich, ETH Zurich and the University of Basel.

The PhD Program in Plant Sciences complements doctoral research with a structured training framework. By combining discipline-specific courses with methodological, digital, and transferable skills training, the program supports doctoral candidates in developing competencies that extend beyond their individual research projects and contribute to a well-rounded professional profile.

Information about the PhD Program

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Information about joining the program

Information for current doctoral candidates (DCs)

Information for academic supervisors

Courses & events 2026

Fall Term 2026

Courses offered for students enrolled in the PhD Program in Plant Sciences in the current semester.

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Bayer Mentoring Program

Have you ever wondered what it is like to work as a scientist in industry, or how your expertise could translate beyond academia?
The Bayer University Mentoring Program provides doctoral researchers with the opportunity to explore career pathways beyond academia through six months of individual mentoring with experienced Bayer scientists and professionals.

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More info More about More info
Welcome Event

On Sep 7, 2026 (12-13.30) we will organise next Welcome Event for New PSC PhD students at the premises of ETH Zurich. This will be a nice occasion to meet in person and for you to learn more how to benefit from your PhD program.

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From Genes to Landscapes

Join us at the PSC PhD Symposium 2026 for a day of talks from renowned speakers and exiting opportunities for early career researches to present their work!
This Symposium is organized by PhD students together with the Scientific Committee consisting of researches from the three universities and the PSC.

Symposium 2026 More about Symposium 2026

Selected topics

Generative AI Use Assessment among PhD researchers in Natural Sciences

How often do other PhD researchers use LLM-based generative AI? Which tools do they rely on? What do they use AI for? How confident are they in evaluating AI-generated outputs?

We are conducting an anonymous survey to create a snapshot of AI use among doctoral researchers in natural sciences across ETH Zurich, the University of Zurich, and the University of Basel.

Whether you use AI daily, occasionally, or not at all, your perspective is valuable.

Preliminary Results More about Preliminary Results
Generative AI

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has become part of everyday academic practice at ETH Zurich, the University of Zurich, and the University of Basel. Tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot, and similar Large Language Models (LLMs) can support doctoral researchers in drafting texts, structuring ideas, coding, data analysis, and exploring research questions. When used thoughtfully, such tools may enhance productivity and facilitate learning. At the same time, they require careful, responsible, and secure handling.

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Training in Plant Phenotyping

The PhD Program in Plant Sciences has strengthened its research curriculum by expanding its training offer in plant phenotyping, reflecting the growing importance of phenotyping across plant science—from understanding fundamental biological processes to addressing challenges in agriculture and climate resilience.

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PhD Program in Plant Sciences has a new flyer

We are improving the program for you

About PhD Program More about About PhD Program
Plant Science NEWS

Check out our latest newsletter

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