How I Secured a Fully Funded PhD at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom Through the German Rhodes Scholarship

Hello! I am Luisa, a PhD student at the University of Oxford, passionate about shaping research and innovation for social benefit. My academic path has therefore been deliberately multidisciplinary. I studied Molecular Medicine (BSc), Rhetoric (BA major), and Latin (minor) at the University of Tübingen in Germany before moving to Oxford, where I completed an MSc in Global Governance and Diplomacy. I then began my PhD in Molecular Cell Biology in Health and Disease at the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology.

My current research focuses on antibodies, particularly how differences in flexibility and reach across antibody isotypes relate to potency. Although this is fundamental research, our findings may ultimately help inform the design of therapeutic antibodies, with potential applications across a range of diseases, including cancer.

Alongside my research, I am the founding president of the Oxford Society for Science Communication and Engagement (OSSCE), Oxford’s student-led interdisciplinary community for learning, practising, and advancing skills in research communication and public engagement.

More recently, a friend and I have also been exploring Oxford’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. We are working on something of our own and hope to share more soon.

Outside academia, I enjoy photography and learning new sports, something Oxford offers no shortage of opportunities to do.

German Rhodes Scholarship Details

German Rhodes Scholarship: Rhodes Trust (fully-funded postgraduate studies, including fees and a living stipend as well as visa costs

Here is a link: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/germany/.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

• German Academic National Foundation (Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes): financial and ideational scholarship; amount depends on parents' income
• Talent im Land Baden-Württemberg: merit-based stipend for high school students
• PROMOS: stipend for internships (and studies) in non-European countries

Educational Background

• 2019-2023: BSc Molecular Medicine, Tübingen University
• 2020-2023: BA Rhetoric (Major), Latin (Minor), Tübingen University
• 2023-2024: MSc Global Governance and Diplomacy, University of Oxford
• 2024-to date: DPhil/PhD Molecular Cell Biology in Health and Disease

My multidisciplinary academic trajectory has been key to appreciating and adopting different perspectives, seeking to understand the ‘bigger picture’ and embracing the complexity and interconnectedness of systems.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Oxford?

I usually think about my potential next steps about a year in advance to familiarise myself with deadlines and requirements. For the application itself, I have always found it useful to understand the institutional culture and expectations.

Talking to people who have taken the same route and are related to the institution can provide key insights.

How Did You Find Information About the German Rhodes Scholarship and the University of Oxford?

I conducted some research on the web and learnt a lot about different opportunities in conversation with peers or experienced professionals.

How Do You Rate the University of Oxford Academically?

Oxford University holds a very special place for me. I particularly value the stimulating conversations and exchange of ideas with peers and senior academics, alongside the University’s remarkable academic rigour and excellence as well as its vast resources.

Experiencing Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar has made my time here all the more special. I deeply appreciate the warmth and generosity of the Rhodes community, the support of the Trust, and the genuine kindness of its staff. I have also found the alumni network exceptionally welcoming and supportive. It truly is a remarkable community of people whose accomplishments are matched by their willingness to engage, encourage, and give back.

How Does the University of Oxford Support International Students?

Oxford offers very good support for international students, who make up the majority of its postgraduate student community.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my multidisciplinary interests and academic education, as well as my social commitment that form my mission and “story,” contributed to my successful application.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Be authentic and embrace your own story: what inspires you, what do you care about, and what is your vision? It is equally important to understand the culture and values of the Scholarship. Learn as much about it as you can, and speak to people who know the institution well or who have been in your position before. If you are interested in the German Rhodes Scholarship, you are very welcome to attend one of our Q&A webinars. We kindly ask that you refrain from reaching out privately, as we want to make sure everyone has access to the same information.

If your application is not successful, don’t take it personally. There are many paths towards what you care about, so keep exploring other opportunities and pursuing what matters to you.