The ISTernship Summer Program in Austria

Opportunity Description:


The ISTernship (“IST-” + “(int)ernship“) is a summer internship program for bachelor’s and master’s students who are looking to expand their scientific research experience. Every summer since 2013, roughly 30-40 students join the ISTernship program and work closely with our faculty or a lab member on a short research project.

As part of the application, prospective interns choose a group to work in, and successful applicants agree on a research project with the group leader.

Upon arrival, ISTerns receive an introduction to research at IST Austria as well as an introduction to the IST Austria Graduate School. The program culminates with a research symposium, where ISTerns present their work to peers, faculty and lab mentors.

Internships are full-time and will be conducted exclusively in English. The duration of the internship will be 2-3 months between May 15 and September 15. Exact dates and length are decided together with the supervisor.

Benefits of the ISTernship summer program:

  • Monthly compensation
  • Access to affordable health insurance
  • Allowance for travel costs
  • Subsidized housing
  • On campus housing available
  • Free access to the IST Austria shuttle bus with hourly service to Vienna

For more information and frequently asked questions, see the ISTernship FAQ.

Minimum Qualifications and/or Eligibility Requirements: 

Candidates must be enrolled Bachelor- or Master of Science students (or similar) in good standing at a degree granting institution. They must have completed at least the fourth semester of their bachelor’s studies (before the respective start date). Students accepted to or enrolled in a PhD program are not eligible to apply.

Application Process: 

The call for the 2022 ISTernship program is now closed. The call  for the 2023 ISTernship program will open in December 2022.

Please upload the following documents to the application portal:

  • CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • University transcripts and diplomas of all degree programs and all years you have attended and/or are currently enrolled in (we recommend to submit these in the original language as well as in English)
  • Contact information of 1 or 2 referees

You will also be expected to indicate your preferred professor(s) to work with from the list provided when the call opens. Please note that you do not need to contact these professors during the application process.

For more information on this opportunity, please contact:
Website/CV: 
https://phd.pages.ist.ac.at/isternship/