Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) International Summer Student Programme 2026 – Research Internship in Materials & Energy
- Omran Aburayya
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read
If you are an undergraduate student eager to gain hands‑on international research experience in materials, energy and quantum science, then the International Summer Student Programme (ISSP) 2026 at the Helmholtz‑Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie (HZB) (Germany) is now open for applications. This eight‑week summer opportunity allows budding scientists to collaborate with world‑leading researchers in Berlin and make tangible progress in their academic journey. Here's everything you need to know.
🌐 Programme Summary
Location: Berlin, Germany (HZB campuses at Berlin‑Wannsee & Berlin‑Adlershof)
Host Institution: Helmholtz‑Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie (HZB)
Study Level: Undergraduate students (Bachelor or early Master level) — PhD candidates are not eligible.
Target Group: International undergraduate students enrolled in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Structural Biology, Mathematics, Engineering, Life or Environmental Sciences or related disciplines.
Fields of Focus: Research projects in Photon Science; Photovoltaics/Solar Cells & Catalysis; Electrochemical Energy Storage; Quantum & Functional Materials; Accelerator Research.
Value & Coverage:
Subsistence allowance of €1,900 gross for external participants; €1,000 gross for students from universities in Berlin or Potsdam.
Travel cost subsidy of 75% up to €200 for EU (incl UK) participants, or up to €800 for non‑EU participants.
Duration: 8 weeks, from 6 July 2026 to 28 August 2026.
Application Deadline: 14 December 2025.
📚 Programme Overview
The ISSP at HZB offers participants the opportunity to work full time (40 hours/week) for eight consecutive weeks on a research project in collaboration with HZB scientists. Students are embedded in the everyday work of research teams at HZB’s Berlin‑Wannsee or Berlin‑Adlershof campuses, gaining laboratory or experimental‑area experience.
In addition to the primary research placement, the programme includes a structured framework of enrichment activities:
Visits to HZB research facilities such as the synchrotron radiation source BESSY II, solar energy labs, and the accelerator facility used for proton‑beam therapy.
Excursions to other research institutions in Berlin and surrounding region.
Workshops on science communication and entrepreneurship.
A closing event featuring a scientific poster presentation, enabling students to present their work to peers and researchers.
This blend of intensive research plus professional development and networking positions the ISSP as a high‑impact summer experience for students planning to advance in STEM research, energy/materials science, or related fields.
💲 Benefits
Financial support: A subsistence allowance plus travel cost subsidy help reduce financial barriers to participation.
Research immersion: Work directly in a top research institution, alongside experts, on active projects in cutting‑edge areas.
Professional growth: Gain laboratory and experimental skills, develop project experience, engage in poster presentation, and join workshops.
Global network and international exposure: Collaborate with international peers in Berlin’s research ecosystem, enhance your intercultural and research competencies.
Strong institutional environment: HZB is a globally recognised centre for materials and energy research, fostering an international, interdisciplinary community of over 1,400 employees from some 70 countries.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following:
Be enrolled as a Bachelor or Master student (PhD candidates are not eligible).
Have completed at least two years of full‑time study in their major discipline by the start of the programme.
Be enrolled at their home university throughout the programme period (6 July – 28 August 2026).
Have good command of English (German is an advantage).
Be able to provide a letter of reference.
HZB especially welcomes applications from students of diverse backgrounds and emphasises promoting women in science.
📝 Application Procedure
How to Apply: Submit your application online via the HZB portal before the deadline (14 December 2025).
🗂️ Documents required (to be uploaded in English or German, and in PDF format, unprotected):
Academic CV: Maximum two pages, tabular/chronological form, summarising education and relevant skills/experience.
Certificate of Enrolment: Must cover the period until at least end of August 2026. If not yet available, provide current certificate and submit updated later.
Transcripts and academic degree certificate (if applicable): Overview of marks and completed courses.
Copy of passport or identity card.
Letter of reference: Written by someone familiar with your academic work and conduct.
Declaration of Certificate of Enrolment (ZAV form) – mandatory for students from non‑EU countries (signed & stamped by your university).
ℹ️ Additional Information
HZB does not provide on‑campus accommodation. Applicants must arrange housing themselves. It is advisable to start searching early because affordable housing in Berlin is competitive.
Health insurance must be covered by the participant; HZB does not provide health insurance.
The working language of the programme is primarily English.
👌🏻 Tips for Applicants
Prepare your application well ahead of the deadline to ensure all documents are complete and formatted correctly.
Focus on highlighting any relevant research, laboratory, data‑analysis, modelling or technical skills that align with the HZB research focus (materials science, energy, photovoltaics, quantum materials).
Clearly articulate in your CV or cover letter how your academic interests or prior experience connect to HZB’s research themes—this will demonstrate fit and motivation.
For your reference letter, choose someone who can speak to your research potential, academic work or teamwork ability.
If you are from a non‑EU country, clarify early with your home institution about the ZAV form and ensure your enrolment certificate covers the requisite period.
Since accommodation is not provided, begin early to identify suitable housing options in Berlin (consider external platforms, student residences, shared flats).
Emphasise any international experience, collaboration or interest in interdisciplinary research—this programme values diverse backgrounds and global outlooks.