Highly qualified young graduates enter one of the most productive and creative phases of their scientific careers while working on their PhD. The HITEC programme aims to create optimal conditions for these talented young researchers. Joint lectures and practical training promote their understanding of the topics and methods involved, including the joint use of the scientific infrastructure. A good supervision concept creates a supportive environment for successful dissertation work. Doctoral researchers learn to place their own research in an international and applied context when they visit their external mentors at international research institutions or in industry, or when they present their results at international conferences. Professional skills training completes the three-year PhD programme.