Doctor rerum naturalium (Latin for 'Doctor of Natural Sciences', lit.
nat., is a doctoral academic degree awarded by universities in some European countries (e.g. Germany, Austria and Czech Republic) to graduates in physics, chemistry, biology, geology, computer science, pharmacy, psychology, other natural sciences and similar areas.
or a Dr.-Ing for computer science graduates, differentiating between degrees in theoretical and practical topics.
To start a PhD in Germany, students must typically possess a master's degree in the related field.
[4] In the Czech Republic and Slovakia, a similarly designated degree, abbreviated RNDr., is awarded.