ICFO International Summer Fellows Program

ICFO - The Institute of Photonic Sciences

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Outstanding students, typically in the final two years of a master's-equivalent or engineering degree, in physics, optics and photonics.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

ICFO (The Institute of Photonic Sciences) in Castelldefels-Barcelona is a world leader in quantum optics, nanophotonics, nonlinear optics, biophotonics, and solar photovoltaics. Through its International Summer Fellows Program, ICFO offers 8-to-12-week paid research fellowships pairing top international Bachelor’s and Master’s students with an ICFO Group Leader for an intensive experimental or theoretical photonics project.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Outstanding students, typically in the final two years of a master's-equivalent or engineering degree, in physics, optics and photonics.
2. Note the deadline. Jan – Mar (annual; the programme is launched every January on jobs.icfo.eu) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Presentation/Motivation Letter: Statement detailing your physics/engineering background, specific photonics interests, and preferred ICFO research groups.; Academic Transcripts: Complete Bachelor’s (and Master’s, if applicable) grade transcripts in English.; Curriculum Vitae: Highlighting optics lab work, quantum mechanics coursework, laser instrumentation, or numerical simulation skills.; Two Academic Referees: Contact details for two professors who may be contacted by the ICFO selection committee..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Academic Excellence & Coursework Review by ICFO Committee → Shortlist Interviews with ICFO Group Leaders (April) → Final Fellowship Award.

Profile of past winners

Physics and electrical/optical engineering students who demonstrate strong foundations in quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and optics and aspire to pursue a Master’s or PhD in photonics.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
5. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for ICFO International Summer Fellows Program?

Outstanding students, typically in the final two years of a master's-equivalent or engineering degree, in physics, optics and photonics.

What does ICFO International Summer Fellows Program cover?

A research stay of about 12 weeks (June to September) under an ICFO group leader with a training programme - check the ICFO jobs page for funding

When is the deadline for ICFO International Summer Fellows Program?

Jan – Mar (annual; the programme is launched every January on jobs.icfo.eu) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with ICFO International Summer Fellows Program?

Host countries: Spain.

What documents do I need for ICFO International Summer Fellows Program?

Presentation/Motivation Letter: Statement detailing your physics/engineering background, specific photonics interests, and preferred ICFO research groups.; Academic Transcripts: Complete Bachelor’s (and Master’s, if applicable) grade transcripts in English.; Curriculum Vitae: Highlighting optics lab work, quantum mechanics coursework, laser instrumentation, or numerical simulation skills.; Two Academic Referees: Contact details for two professors who may be contacted by the ICFO selection committee..

How are applicants selected for ICFO International Summer Fellows Program?

Academic Excellence & Coursework Review by ICFO Committee → Shortlist Interviews with ICFO Group Leaders (April) → Final Fellowship Award.

How much work is the ICFO International Summer Fellows Program application?

Very High: ICFO Jobs Portal Application + Motivation Letter + CV + Academic Transcripts + Contact Details of 2 Referees