Launch your career in quantum technology with a fully-funded research fellowship at one of Europe’s top photonics institutes. The DigiQ Student Research Fellowships Program 2026 provides a unique opportunity for master’s students to conduct groundbreaking research at ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences in Barcelona, Spain. This prestigious program is part of the DigiQ initiative, Europe’s largest quantum education program, designed to train the next generation of leaders in Quantum Science and Technologies (QST).
Key Snapshot:
- Institute: ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences, Barcelona, Spain
- Program: DigiQ Student Research Fellowships
- Academic Level: Master’s Degree Students
- Fellowship Duration: Up to 12 months
- Application Process: Rolling admissions
Fellowship Overview
The DigiQ Fellowship is designed for high-achieving master’s students enrolled at a DigiQ partner or affiliated university. It allows you to complete a research stay or your master’s thesis project within ICFO’s vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment, working alongside world-renowned scientists.
Degree Level
This fellowship is available for Master’s degree students currently enrolled at a DigiQ partner or affiliated institution.
Available Subjects & Research Fields
As a leader in photonics, ICFO offers research opportunities across a wide spectrum of quantum and optical sciences. Fellowships are available in fields including, but not limited to:
- Quantum Optics & Quantum Information
- Quantum Communications & Cryptography
- Quantum Sensing & Metrology
- Quantum Simulation & Computation
- Nanophotonics & Quantum Nanotechnology
- Ultrafast Optics & Atto-Science
- Theoretical Quantum Physics
- Biophotonics & Biomedical Optics
This fellowship is ideal for students of Physics, Quantum Engineering, Photonics, Nanotechnology, and related disciplines.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package:
- Monthly Stipend:
- €300/month for students from institutions within Catalonia.
- €600/month for students from institutions outside Catalonia.
- Travel Coverage: Round-trip travel expenses to Barcelona are covered.
- Extended Duration: Fellowships can last up to 12 months.
- Compatible Funding: Can be combined with other programs like Erasmus+.
- World-Class Facilities: Full access to ICFO’s state-of-the-art labs and equipment.
- Expert Mentorship: Direct collaboration with leading research groups in quantum technology.
Eligible Nationalities
The program is open to students of all nationalities. ICFO actively promotes a diverse and inclusive research community.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled in a Master’s program at a DigiQ partner or affiliated institution.
- Be an active participant in, or committed to joining, the DigiQ network.
- Possess a high level of proficiency in English.
- Demonstrate strong academic merit, relevant achievements, and clear motivation.
Application Procedure
The application process is straightforward and conducted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.
Step 1: Prepare Your Application Documents
You will need to submit the following in a single PDF file (in English):
- Cover Letter: Specify your preferred ICFO research group(s), proposed start and end dates, and explain how this fellowship will benefit your career.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detail your academic and professional background.
- Academic Transcripts: From your undergraduate and (if available) postgraduate studies.
- Referee Contact Details: Provide the details of one academic or professional referee.
Step 2: Submission and Selection
- Submit your complete application via the official channel (typically email to a designated address).
- Eligible applications are reviewed and ranked by a selection committee.
- Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed, often with potential ICFO group leaders.
- Successful applicants will receive a formal fellowship offer.
- Results are generally communicated within 2 months of application submission.
Don’t miss this chance to accelerate your research career at the forefront of quantum science. If you are a motivated master’s student in a relevant field, prepare your application and apply as soon as possible to secure your place in this elite program.
Pro Tip: When preparing your cover letter, be sure to research ICFO’s specific research groups and mention those that genuinely align with your academic interests and career goals. A targeted application significantly increases your chances of success.
