HZB International Summer Student Programme 2026

The HZB International Summer Student Programme (ISSP) 2026 invites motivated undergraduate students from around the world to participate in cutting-edge nanoscience and materials research. Held from 6 July to 28 August 2026 in Berlin, Germany, the program offers a unique opportunity to conduct independent research in photon science, quantum materials, photovoltaics, and electrochemical energy systems under the guidance of world-class HZB scientists.

 Program Details

About the Programme

The Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) International Summer Student Programme offers 20 international undergraduate students the chance to participate in hands-on, high-impact nanoscience and energy research. Over an 8-week period, students work on independent research projects alongside HZB scientists, gaining exposure to advanced lab environments in photonics, solar cell technology, catalysis, electrochemical energy storage, and quantum materials.

Participants will conduct research at one of HZB’s two world-class campuses:

• Berlin-Wannsee – home to energy and materials innovation laboratories

• Berlin-Adlershof – host to the BESSY II synchrotron radiation source, a global hub for photon and nanomaterials research.

Programme Highlights

Participants will:

• Work on an independent research project under expert supervision.

• Visit HZB’s key facilities, including the BESSY II synchrotron and solar energy research labs.

• Join workshops on science communication, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.

• Participate in scientific poster sessions and excursions to other German research centers.

This immersive programme offers a real-world look into how nanotechnology, materials science, and photon physics drive global scientific innovation.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be undergraduate (Bachelor’s or Master’s) students in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or related disciplines.

• Have completed at least two years of full-time study at university.

• Remain enrolled at their university during the programme period (July–August 2026).

• Possess good English proficiency (German language skills are advantageous).

• Provide a letter of reference from a faculty member familiar with their academic performance.

HZB values diversity and especially encourages women and underrepresented groups in science to apply.

Working Conditions

• Duration: 6 July – 28 August 2026 (8 weeks)

• Working hours: 40 hours/week

• Compensation:

  • €1,900 gross (external participants)

  • €1,000 gross (students from Berlin/Potsdam universities)

• Travel subsidy: up to 75% of expenses (max €200 EU / €800 non-EU).

• A contract is provided for the duration of the internship.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted by 14 December 2025 through the official HZB portal.
Required documents:

1. Academic CV (max 2 pages)

2. Certificate of enrolment (valid through August 2026)

3. Academic transcripts and degree certificate (if applicable)

4. Copy of passport or national ID

5. Letter of reference (from a professor or supervisor)

6. Declaration of Certificate of Enrolment (ZAV) – for non-EU applicants

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For details, visit:
👉 HZB ISSP Official Application Page

Why Join HZB

HZB is one of Europe’s leading nanoscience research centers, advancing climate-neutral materials, energy storage, and solar conversion technologies. Students will join a vibrant international community of 1,400 researchers from over 70 countries, committed to discovery, collaboration, and sustainability.

Through this program, students gain hands-on experience in nanostructure characterization, semiconductor materials, and renewable energy systems, making it an exceptional stepping stone for future research careers.

Reference Links

• Official Programme Page – HZB ISSP

• HZB Core Values and Code of Conduct

• BESSY II Facility Overview

Disclaimer

This article is an informational overview of the HZB International Summer Student Programme 2026. All details are subject to change. Please verify all eligibility and application requirements on the official HZB website before applying.