Posted: January 28, 2026
Application Deadline
Rolling basis: Apply anytime—positions are filled on an ongoing basis until no longer available.
Eligible Applicants
Open to both domestic (Spanish) and international students from around the world.
Study Level
Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral researchers (primarily focused on undergrad and master’s for project/thesis stays, but advanced levels may qualify depending on the call).
Research Areas
- Biophysics & Biomedical Optics
- Optical Sensing, Optoelectronics & Photovoltaics
- Nonlinear Optics, Ultrafast Optics & Atto-Physics
- Nanophotonics, Optomechanics & Nanomechanics
- Experimental Quantum Optics & Quantum Information
- Theoretical Nanophotonics, Quantum Optics & Quantum Information
Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded Support)
- Monthly gross stipend:
- €300 per month if your home institution is located in Catalonia
- €600 per month if your home institution is outside Catalonia
- Coverage of eligible travel expenses to Catalonia/Spain
These fellowships provide financial support for research stays, allowing focus on cutting-edge projects without major funding worries.
Program Overview
Offered by ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences in Barcelona, Spain, the Student Research Fellowships support talented students globally who wish to conduct a research project, complete a bachelor’s/master’s thesis, or join an ongoing initiative within an ICFO research group. The initiative promotes top-tier research excellence and gives participants early access to advanced science in photonics, quantum technologies, and related fields. It connects outstanding students from leading universities with ICFO’s world-class labs, offering hands-on experience in innovative, frontier-level research.
Eligibility Requirements
Key criteria include:
- Association or commitment to join a DigiQ network (for certain funded positions; general calls may vary—check official for specifics)
- Enrollment in a relevant program (e.g., master’s at a DigiQ partner/affiliated institution for the full fellowship duration, where applicable)
- Strong proficiency in English for effective collaboration
- Selection prioritizes academic excellence, research potential, leadership qualities, involvement in extracurriculars/community, and teamwork skills
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online on a rolling basis.
- Review ICFO research groups and identify matches for your interests via the official site
- Prepare required materials (CV, academic transcripts, motivation letter, references, etc.)
- Submit through the fellowship portal or contact the relevant group/supervisor
Official Application Link: ICFO Student Research Fellowships Page
For related calls (e.g., Summer Fellowships 2026 for 3-month undergrad stays June–Sept): Check ICFO Jobs & Fellowships regularly for open positions.
This rolling, partially funded research fellowship is a fantastic gateway to photonics and quantum research in Spain—perfect for ambitious students from West Africa or Benin seeking international lab experience in high-impact fields. Apply early as spots fill quickly!
Questions? Comment below or visit the official ICFO links for updates and group contacts.