Helmholtz Association Research Internship
The HZB International Summer Student Programme (ISSP) is an eight-week research internship offered by Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, a member of the Helmholtz Association. It provides 20 selected undergraduate students from around the world with hands-on research experience on individual projects in fields such as Photon Science, Photovoltaics, Solar Cells/Catalysis, Electrochemical Energy Storage, Quantum and Functional Materials, and Accelerator research. Participants work closely with HZB scientists at the Berlin-Wannsee or Berlin-Adlershof campuses, immersing in daily research activities at world-class laboratories.
The program is complemented by a framework of activities including visits to research facilities like the BESSY II synchrotron, excursions to other Berlin-area institutions, workshops on science communication and entrepreneurship, and a closing scientific poster presentation. Benefits include a subsistence allowance (€1,900 gross for external participants, €1,000 for local Berlin/Potsdam students), partial travel reimbursement, and 40 hours/week under an internship contract. Full participation from July 6 to August 28, 2026, is mandatory.
This program fosters international collaboration and diversity, particularly encouraging applications from women, and supports career development in cutting-edge energy materials research within the Helmholtz ecosystem. For 2026, applications closed with feedback by end of January 2026.
Eligibility Requirements
- Undergraduate student (Bachelor or Master student, not PhD candidate) in Physics, Chemistry, Material Science, Structural Biology, Mathematics, Engineering, Life or Environmental Sciences, or related disciplines.
- Completed at least two years of full-time study in major discipline at university level by program start.
- Enrolled as a student at university during the stay (6 July to 28 August 2026).
- Good knowledge of English (German advantageous).
- Able to provide a letter of reference.
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.