Max Planck Institute for Astronomy Summer Internship

MPIA offers up to 11 fully-funded internship opportunities for bachelor and master students anywhere in the world who wish to acquire hand-on experience in research and instrument development in astronomy. 

Students are invited to work full-time for up to three months on various research projects (see list). The internship will be in person at MPIA in Heidelberg, Germany and is conducted entirely in English. The primary internship program typically takes place during the summer (between May and September) but visits are possible throughout the year depending on the students’ academic calendars. At least two internships will be awarded to candidates from developing countries (see list).

Students who have obtained a masters degree in 2024 or earlier as well as students who are already enrolled in PhD programs are not eligible for the internship. Specific requirements exist for non-EU nationals seeking an internship for their Bachelor’s degree: due to administrative visa constraints the internship must take place while the applicant is still studying for their Bachelor’s to the final day of the internship. The student must obtain their degree on a day (graduation date) after the end of the internship. This does not apply to students holding a Master’s (and technically ready to start a Ph.D.). In addition, Bachelor students must have at least four completed semesters at the beginning of the internship (May/June, 2026) to be eligible for a visa. 

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from women, people with disabilities, and minorities are particularly welcome. We also specifically encourage applications from students with backgrounds that are traditionally underrepresented in astronomy including, but not limited to, ethnic minority members, refugees or the children of refugees, first-generation college student. The MPIA supports its employees in the search for suitable child care. For questions concerning promoting equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees at MPIA, please contact the Equal Opportunity Officer ([email protected]) and regarding disabilities guidelines and regulations please contact Ralf Launhardt ([email protected]).