The new school aims to develop advanced AI methods for basic research in the life sciences while also opening up prospects for future translational applications. According to the Max Planck Society, the decision to launch the new program was made following a multi-stage selection process. The concept was developed under the coordination of Karsten Borgwardt, Director of the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry.
On behalf of the University of Bonn, Assistant Professor Dr. Zorah Lähner is involved. She conducts research at the Institute of Computer Science, focusing on machine learning and geometric optimization.
For the University of Bonn, this participation opens up new opportunities in a highly dynamic field of research. The Max Planck School connects researchers across institutions and internationally, creating an attractive environment for doctoral candidates. At the same time, it strengthens the exchange between methodological AI research and biomedical applications. This connection is considered particularly promising for gaining new insights into health and disease and enabling long-term innovations in diagnostics and therapy.
Following the selection, the next steps toward establishing the School will now begin. Plans include setting up the administrative office, establishing cooperation agreements with partner institutions, and preparing the first round of calls for PhD positions. According to the ambitious timeline, this is scheduled to begin as early as September 1, 2026. The University of Bonn is part of the participating institutional network.
Further information:
https://www.mpg.de/26250857/max-planck-school-of-biomedical-artificial-intelligence