Courses Announcement – ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships Program 2026

 Courses Announcement – ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships Program 2026

About the Institution:
The Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) is an internationally recognized research center located in Barcelona, Spain. It focuses on cutting-edge research in photonics, quantum science, nanotechnology, and related fields. ICFO’s mission is to conduct world-class research, educate the next generation of scientists, and drive innovation that impacts science, technology, and society. The institute hosts multiple research groups specializing in quantum optics, nanophotonics, and biomedical optics.

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Spain ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships Program 2026

Required Course – ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences (Spain)

About the Course (Fellowship Program):

The DigiQ Student Research Fellowships Program 2026 provides exceptional Master’s students with the opportunity to carry out a research stay or Master’s thesis project at ICFO. This program is part of the Digitally Enhanced Quantum Technology Master (DigiQ) initiative, which is Europe’s largest quantum education and training network. The program is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical research experience in the rapidly evolving field of Quantum Science and Technologies (QST).

Participants will have the chance to join world-leading research teams and work on state-of-the-art projects that combine physics, engineering, and computer science. The program supports the European goal of building a new generation of scientists and engineers capable of driving future innovations in quantum technologies.

Academic Level:
Open for students currently enrolled in a Master’s degree program at any DigiQ partner or affiliated institution.

Fields of Study Covered:

• Quantum Optics and Quantum Information

• Quantum Communication and Cryptography

• Quantum Sensing and Metrology

• Quantum Simulation and Computation

• Nanophotonics and Quantum Nanotechnology

• Ultrafast Optics and Atto-Science

• Light-Matter Interaction

• Condensed Matter and Quantum Materials

• Biophotonics and Biomedical Optics

• Theoretical Quantum Physics

Program Benefits:

• Fellowship duration: up to 12 months.

• Monthly stipend:

  • €300 gross/month for students from Catalonia-based institutions.

  • €600 gross/month for students from outside Catalonia.

• Travel expenses to Catalonia are covered.

• Compatibility with Erasmus+ and CQA Student Mobility Fellowships.

• Full access to ICFO’s advanced laboratories, research infrastructure, and interdisciplinary training environment.

• Collaboration with leading international researchers in the field of quantum technologies.

• Opportunities for academic publications and future PhD placements.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must be enrolled in a Master’s program at a DigiQ partner or affiliated institution.

• Must be a participant or willing to join the DigiQ network.

• Strong command of the English language (written and spoken).

• Excellent academic background and motivation for research in quantum sciences.

• Demonstrated teamwork, research initiative, and academic excellence.

Selection Process:

1. Document Submission:
   Applicants must provide the following documents in English:

   • Cover/presentation letter (indicating preferred ICFO research group, intended start and end dates, participation in DigiQ, and expected benefits).

   • Curriculum Vitae (CV).

   • Academic transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate, if available).

   • Contact details of one referee (academic or research supervisor).

2. Evaluation and Interview:

   • Applications are reviewed for eligibility and evaluated by a selection committee.

   • Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview (online or in person).

   • Successful candidates receive an official fellowship offer from ICFO.

Application Timeline:

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. Results are typically communicated within two months of submission. Early applications are strongly encouraged due to high competition.

Target Audience:

This fellowship is ideal for motivated Master’s students in Physics, Quantum Engineering, Photonics, or Nanotechnology who are passionate about pursuing research in Quantum Science and Technologies. It also serves as a foundation for those aiming to continue their studies at the PhD level in advanced quantum research institutions.

Program Objective:

The ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships aim to nurture the next generation of quantum scientists and engineers by providing an immersive research experience in a multidisciplinary environment. The program enhances participants’ technical expertise, critical thinking, and collaboration skills, preparing them to become leaders in the rapidly expanding field of quantum innovation.

Apply Here – ICFO The Institute of Photonic Sciences