The ISTA Summer Fellowship 2025, also known as the ISTernship, is a fully funded opportunity for undergraduate and master’s students worldwide to engage in cutting-edge research at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA). Since 2013, the program has welcomed outstanding students to join ISTA for 2 to 3 months during the summer, offering a unique platform to develop their scientific skills and contribute to impactful research projects.
ISTerns work under the guidance of renowned professors in biology, computer science, data science, mathematics, physics, neuroscience, chemistry, materials science, and interdisciplinary areas. They also participate in tailored events, culminating in a poster session to showcase their research findings.
This fully funded fellowship program provides a monthly stipend, travel allowance, subsidized housing, and health insurance, ensuring students can focus on their research without financial burdens. Applications for the 2025 intake are open until February 5, 2025 (15:00 CET).
Quick Overview of ISTA Summer Fellowship 2025
- Host Country: Austria
- Host Institution: Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA)
- Fellowship Duration: 2 to 3 months (May 15 to September 15, 2025)
- Application Deadline: February 5, 2025 (15:00 CET)
- Fields of Study: Biology, computer science, data science, mathematics, physics, neuroscience, chemistry, materials science, and interdisciplinary areas
- Eligibility: Undergraduate and master’s students in good academic standing
- Compensation: €1,150/month, travel allowance, health insurance, and subsidized housing
Research Focus for the Fully Funded Research Fellowship in Austria
ISTerns work closely with ISTA’s top professors in fields such as:
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Data Science and Scientific Computing
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Neuroscience
- Chemistry and Materials Science
- Interdisciplinary Areas
Perks of the Institute of Science and Technology Summer Fellowship in Austria 2025
Participants in the ISTernship program enjoy:
- A monthly stipend of €1,150 to cover basic living expenses.
- Travel allowance to fund round-trip transportation to and from ISTA.
- Comprehensive health insurance is provided for the entire fellowship duration, facilitated by OeAD, Austria’s education and internationalization agency.
- Access to subsidized housing on the ISTA campus or in Vienna.
- Options include ISTA-owned guesthouses, short-term apartments, or OeAD student residences, providing affordable and comfortable living arrangements.
- On-campus facilities include cafeterias, coffee shops, and vending machines.
- Hourly shuttle bus services connect ISTA to Vienna for convenient commuting.
Benefits of the Fully Funded Summer Fellowship for International Students
- Conduct hands-on research and develop technical skills in world-class labs.
- Build a strong foundation for careers in science and technology.
- Collaborate with an international cohort of researchers and peers.
- Experience Austria’s rich cultural heritage while engaging in interdisciplinary research.
Eligibility Criteria for the IST Summer Fellowship
To qualify for the ISTernship Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Enrolled in or recently graduated from a bachelor’s or master’s program in natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry, or related fields.
- Completed at least two years (or four semesters) of bachelor’s studies before the program starts.
- Graduated within a year of the program start date (after May 15, 2024).
- Not currently enrolled in or accepted into a PhD program.
- Fluent in English; no language certification is required.
- Applicants from Russian universities are not eligible due to suspended mobility programs.
Important Dates for the ISTA Summer Fellowship
- Application Submission Deadline: February 5, 2025 (15:00 CET)
- Reference Submission Deadline: February 5, 2025 (15:00 CET)
- Notification of Results: March 31, 2025
How to Apply for the ISTernship Fellowship
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official ISTernship page.
- Access the application portal via the ISTA Portal.
- Prepare and upload the required documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose
- University transcripts and diplomas
- Contact details of 1 or 2 referees
- Names of 1 or 2 ISTA host professors (optional)
- Submit your application before February 5, 2025 (15:00 CET).
Required Documents for the ISTernship Fellowship
Applicants must provide:
- CV: Include educational history, work experience, awards, and publications.
- Statement of Purpose: Highlight research experience, motivation, and goals for the fellowship.
- University Transcripts and Diplomas: Provide original and translated versions (if applicable).
- Referee Contact Details: Ensure at least one referee submits a recommendation letter.
Events and Activities During the Fellowship
The ISTernship program ensures a well-rounded experience by organizing:
- Welcome, and orientation events introduce ISTerns to the campus and facilities.
- Professional development sessions to enhance technical and soft skills.
- Participants present their research findings to peers, faculty, and the broader ISTA community.
- Events that foster collaboration and connections within ISTA’s diverse scientific community.
Additional Highlights of the Fellowship
- Collaborate with ISTA professors to design and execute unique research projects.
- Access subsidized housing on campus or in Vienna with a supportive student community.
- Enhance your skills through professional development activities.
The ISTernship program runs between May 15 and September 15, 2025, with a duration of 2 to 3 months. The exact start and end dates are determined in collaboration with the assigned host professor, ensuring flexibility to accommodate academic schedules.
For more information and to apply please visit the official IST website.
