Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) International Summer Student Program (ISSP) 2026 is a prestigious 8-week research internship that invites talented students from around the globe to Berlin, Germany. Participants work alongside top scientists on independent research projects in the fields of energy, materials science, and photon science.
Quick Program Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Berlin, Germany (Wannsee and Adlershof campuses) |
| Program Dates | 6 July – 28 August 2026 |
| Duration | 8 Weeks |
| Status | Applications are currently CLOSED (Deadline was Dec 14, 2025) |
| Next Cycle | Expected to open in Autumn 2026 for the 2027 program |
Financial Benefits (Fully Funded)
This program is highly competitive and provides a comprehensive financial package to support international students:
- Stipend: * €1,900 gross for the total 8-week duration (for participants from universities outside Berlin/Potsdam).
- €1,000 gross for local students from Berlin and Potsdam.
- Travel Subsidy: * Up to €800 for students from non-EU countries.
- Up to €200 for students from EU countries (including the UK).
- Research Access: Full access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the BESSY II electron storage ring.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026 cohort (and future cycles), applicants must meet the following:
- Academic Level: Undergraduate or Master’s students (PhD candidates are not eligible).
- Academic Progress: Must have completed at least two years of full-time university study by the start of the program.
- Fields of Study: Physics, Chemistry, Material Science, Structural Biology, Mathematics, Engineering, or related life/environmental sciences.
- Enrollment: Must remain an enrolled student at your home university throughout the internship (July – August 2026).
- Language: Good command of English (working language). German is a plus but not required.
Application Documents Checklist
If you are planning to apply for the 2027 program, prepare these documents in advance:
- Academic CV: Tabular form, chronological, max 2 pages.
- Certificate of Enrolment: Valid through the duration of the program.
- Transcripts of Records: Recent university marks.
- Copy of Passport/ID: For identification.
- Letter of Reference: From a professor or academic supervisor who can assess your professional conduct.
- ZAV Form: (For non-EU students) A specific “Declaration of Certificate of Enrolment” required for German employment authorities.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Accommodation: HZB does not provide housing. You must find your own accommodation in Berlin, and it is recommended to start searching early as the market is very competitive.
- Poster Presentation: All participants are required to present their research results in a final poster session at the end of the 8-week stay.
- No IELTS Required: While English proficiency is mandatory, a formal IELTS/TOEFL score is usually not a strict requirement if your university can vouch for your level.