Fully funded ISTA's Scientific Internships Program 2023 year-round with no deadlines!

Are you an aspiring scientist with a hunger for hands-on experience and a thirst for discovery? Imagine immersing yourself in the captivating world of cutting-edge research, collaborating with brilliant minds, and contributing to groundbreaking projects that shape our understanding of the world. The Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) offers an unparalleled opportunity for individuals like you through their year-round Scientific Internship Program.

At ISTA, the pursuit of scientific knowledge takes center stage. Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Austria, ISTA is renowned for fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation. For Bachelor's or Master's students that are currently enrolled as active student in their own instutions, or have been recent graduates and eager to embark on a journey of scientific exploration, the Scientific Internship Program opens the door to a world of possibilities. Whether you're captivated by the mysteries of biology, enchanted by the elegance of mathematics, or intrigued by the complexities of physics, ISTA's program provides a platform to gain invaluable hands-on experience within the walls of their state-of-the-art laboratories.

The transition from textbooks to laboratory benches is a pivotal step in a scientist's evolution. ISTA's internships offer this pivotal transition, allowing participants to transcend theoretical knowledge and delve into practical research. As an intern, you won't merely observe from the sidelines; you'll be an active contributor to ongoing projects, working alongside esteemed researchers who are pushing the boundaries of human understanding. From conducting experiments and collecting data to analyzing results and engaging in meaningful discussions, the program enables you to hone essential skills that are not taught in lecture halls.

Beyond the acquisition of technical skills, ISTA's Scientific Internship Program places a strong emphasis on mentorship and personal growth. Each intern is matched with a dedicated mentor, an experienced scientist who becomes a guiding light throughout the journey. This mentorship ensures that you not only grasp the intricacies of your chosen field but also cultivate the analytical mindset and critical thinking abilities that define a successful researcher. Moreover, the connections you forge with fellow interns, researchers, and professionals during your time at ISTA can pave the way for lifelong collaborations and career opportunities. If you're ready to embark on an odyssey of scientific discovery and professional development, ISTA's year-round Scientific Internship Program beckons.

Program details:

  • Host Country: Austria
  • Host University: Institute of Science and Technology Austria
  • Internship Duration: Up to 1 year

Benefits of the ISTA Year-Round Scientific Internship Program:

  • Scientific interns at ISTA enjoy the security of an official employment contract. This includes a guaranteed minimum monthly salary of EUR 1,184 gross.
  • All ISTerns are provided access to affordable health insurance, ensuring their well-being and medical needs are covered during their internship period.
  • Housing expenses are made manageable for interns, as ISTerns are offered subsidized housing solutions, easing the financial burden associated with accommodation.
  • Travel Allowance and Visa Support.
  • Interns benefit from free access to the IST shuttle bus. This facilitates easy commuting and exploration of the vibrant city.
  • Access to ISTA's facilities and resources.

Available Research Area:

  • Biology
  • Computer science
  • Data science and scientific computing
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Neuroscience
  • Chemistry and materials

Eligibility criteria:

  • The candidates must be enrolled in Bachelor or Master’s in the relevant science subjects.
  • Before applying, candidates should make sure their profile and research interests match the research topics.
  • The candidate must be proficient in English.
  • The candidates must be able to attend the full-time internship program and their universities would have no objection to their internship tenure.

Required documents:

The document required to apply for this opportunity is relatively simple, equivalent to when in applying for a job. The document should be sent direclty to the research group leader or staff scientist directly directly (according to the application procedure below this) and should include:

  • CV/ Resume
  • Statement of purpose
  • Latest University transcripts and diplomas

How to apply?

  1. Begin by identifying the research group or scientist that aligns with candidate's interests. To discover the range of available research groups, refer to the overview of research groups or the list of staff scientists.
  2. Once you've pinpointed a research group you're interested in, reach out directly to the leader of the group or the staff scientist. Send them an email with the document listed above. Remember to mention possible dates for internship, keeping in mind that the start date should be at least 2 months ahead.
  3. If the research group is interested in hosting the candidate as a scientific intern, they or their assistant will get in touch with them and guide them through the next steps, which involve submitting further information through the application portal.

Important dates

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis, therefore there is no central deadline.