The ISTernship Fellowship at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) is back for 2025, offering students and recent graduates an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on research experience at one of the world’s top interdisciplinary institutes. Since 2013, the ISTernship program has welcomed talented individuals from around the globe for 2 to 3 months of collaborative research alongside leading scientists.
This summer program not only enhances scientific knowledge but also fosters personal growth through a carefully curated series of events and networking opportunities.
Benefits of the ISTernship Program
Participants of the ISTernship Program enjoy numerous benefits designed to support their professional and personal development:
- Monthly Stipend: A fellowship allowance is provided to cover basic living expenses during the program.
- Travel Reimbursement: Costs for round-trip travel to and from Austria are reimbursed.
- Housing Support: Subsidized accommodation is available on the ISTA campus or in student residences in Vienna managed by OeAD.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage is arranged for the duration of the fellowship.
- Professional Development: ISTerns receive mentorship from top-tier professors, collaborate on research projects, and participate in workshops, presentations, and community-building events.
- Networking Opportunities: A chance to engage with a diverse, global scientific community through ISTA’s social and academic events, culminating in a poster presentation to showcase research findings.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ISTernship Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1# Education Level:
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- Current students in a bachelor’s program (at least second year completed).
- Current students in a master’s program.
- Recent graduates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree (graduated on or after May 15, 2024).
2# Other Requirements:
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- Applicants must be in good academic standing at a degree-granting institution.
- PhD students are ineligible.
- Due to program restrictions, students enrolled at Russian institutions are not eligible.
3# English Proficiency: Assessed through application materials; no formal language tests are required.
Application Process
Interested candidates should prepare and submit the following documents:
- CV/Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Contact Information for 1-2 Referees
- University Transcripts and Diplomas: Original language versions and English translations are recommended; unofficial translations made by applicants are accepted.
- Host Professor Preferences: Provide 1-2 names of potential host professors for collaboration.
The entire application process is conducted online and ISTerns can expect support for travel and visa arrangements if selected.
Application Deadline
The call for applications for the 2025 intake will open in late December 2024. The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 15:00 CET.
