ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026 provide a remarkable opportunity for talented master’s students to engage in cutting-edge research at ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences in Barcelona, Spain. This prestigious program allows students to conduct a research stay or complete a master’s thesis project, gaining hands-on experience in the rapidly evolving field of quantum science and technology.
As part of the Digitally Enhanced Quantum Technology (DigiQ) initiative, the fellowship strengthens Europe’s leading quantum education program. It aims to nurture the next generation of innovators and researchers in Quantum Science and Technologies (QST), offering invaluable exposure, mentorship, and a platform to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in the quantum domain.
Benefits of ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026
- Fellowship duration: Up to 12 months.
- Monthly stipend:
- €300 gross/month if the home institution is in Catalonia.
- €600 gross/month if the home institution is outside Catalonia.
- Travel expenses to Catalonia covered.
- Compatibility with Erasmus+ and CQA Student Mobility Fellowships.
- Access to ICFO’s cutting-edge facilities, interdisciplinary environment, and training.
- Opportunity to collaborate with world-class Quantum Technology research groups.
Eligible Nationalities
The program is open to all nationalities, provided candidates are enrolled in a DigiQ partner university or affiliated institution. ICFO promotes diversity and inclusion, with no restrictions on gender, citizenship, or disability.
Eligibility Criteria for ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026
- Must be enrolled in a Master’s program at a DigiQ partner or affiliated institution.
- Must be a participant or committed to joining the DigiQ network.
- High working proficiency in English.
- Selection is based on academic merit, achievements, motivation, teamwork, and proactive involvement in academic or community activities.
Required Documents
- Cover/presentation letter specifying: preferred ICFO QST research group, intended duration (start & end dates), description of participation in DigiQ, and career benefits of the stay.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Academic transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate, if applicable).
- Contact details of one referee.
Available Subjects
The DigiQ Student Research Fellowships at ICFO are linked to Quantum Science and Technologies (QST). Since ICFO (Institute of Photonic Sciences) hosts multiple research groups, the subjects covered under this fellowship include:
- Quantum Optics and Quantum Information
- Quantum Communications 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
Review and Selection
- Applications reviewed for eligibility.
- Eligible candidates evaluated and ranked by a selection committee.
- Shortlisted candidates interviewed (online or in person) with ICFO group leaders.
- Official fellowship offer sent upon successful match.
How to Apply for ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026
- Submit a cover/presentation letter stating your preferred ICFO QST research group, intended stay duration, DigiQ participation details, and career benefits.
- Attach your Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Provide academic transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate, if applicable).
- Include contact details of one referee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026 offer master’s students hands-on quantum research experience, mentorship, advanced labs, and networking. Flexible durations, interdisciplinary projects, and professional development prepare fellows for future research or industry careers in quantum technologies.
What is the ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowship 2026?
The ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026 provide master’s students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge quantum research. Fellows join ICFO’s interdisciplinary environment, benefiting from mentorship, advanced facilities, and exposure to industrial projects.
Who is eligible for the ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026?
Candidates must be enrolled in a master’s program within the DigiQ network or commit to joining it. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, motivation for research in quantum science, and readiness to integrate into ICFO’s collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.
How long does the fellowship last?
The ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026 offer flexible durations depending on the research project. Students can undertake short-term internships or longer master’s thesis projects, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the agreement with the hosting research group.
What kind of research projects are available?
Fellows can join various ICFO Research Groups covering areas like quantum optics, quantum nanophotonics, ultracold atoms, and photonics technologies. Projects may involve experimental and theoretical work, contributing to active research initiatives in Europe’s leading quantum technology institute.
What support do fellows receive during the program?
ICFO DigiQ fellows receive comprehensive support, including mentorship from leading researchers, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and administrative and technical assistance. Fellows also benefit from professional networking and training opportunities within the institute’s interdisciplinary environment.
How do I apply for the ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026?
Applications require submission of a CV, academic transcripts, and a presentation letter detailing preferred research groups, project duration, and expected career benefits. Candidates must also indicate their membership or intention to join the DigiQ network.
Are there multiple fellowship openings at ICFO?
Yes, ICFO offers several fellowship opportunities through the DigiQ program. Each opening corresponds to different research groups, projects, and areas of quantum science, allowing students to select options that match their expertise and research interests.
What training opportunities are provided?
Fellows benefit from high-level scientific training, workshops, and seminars within ICFO. Training includes practical lab skills, theoretical foundations in quantum technologies, and exposure to industrial applications, preparing students for advanced careers in science and industry.
Can international students apply?
Yes, international students who are part of or willing to join the DigiQ network are welcome to apply. The program promotes a diverse and inclusive environment, supporting students from various countries to gain advanced research experience in Europe’s leading quantum institute.
What are the benefits of joining the ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026?
Students gain hands-on experience in pioneering quantum research, access to world-class labs, and mentorship from top scientists. Fellows also benefit from interdisciplinary exposure, professional networking, and a strong foundation for future careers in research or quantum technologies.
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