POLYMAT Summer Internship Spain 2026

Applications are now open for the POLYMAT Summer Internship Programme 2026 in Spain. This paid summer research opportunity is designed for third- and fourth-year undergraduate students in Chemistry and related science or engineering disciplines.

The internship lasts 2.5 months during summer 2026 and takes place at POLYMAT in Donostia-San Sebastián. Selected interns will receive a monthly stipend of 560 € to support their living expenses. There is no application fee. The programme is open to eligible students of all nationalities. The application deadline is 6 March 2026.

For undergraduate students interested in polymer science, sustainability, advanced materials, and energy applications, this internship offers structured research exposure within a leading European research center.

Overview of the POLYMAT Summer Internship 2026

The POLYMAT Summer Internship Programme provides hands-on research experience in macromolecular design and polymer engineering. It is structured as a laboratory-based internship under the supervision of experienced researchers.

Key Details

• Programme Type: Paid Summer Research Internship

• Level: Undergraduate
• Host Institution: POLYMAT – Basque Center for Macromolecular Design and Engineering
• Location: Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
• Duration: 2.5 months (Summer 2026)
• Monthly Stipend: 560 €
• Application Fee: None
• Deadline: 6 March 2026
• Open To: All nationalities

The programme is intended for students who are approaching the final stage of their undergraduate studies and are considering further academic or research-oriented careers.

About POLYMAT and Its Research Focus

POLYMAT is an internationally recognized research center specializing in polymer science and advanced materials. Based in the Basque Country, it collaborates with universities, industry partners, and global research institutions.

The center focuses on designing new macromolecules and materials with applications in energy storage, sustainable technologies, biomedical systems, and advanced manufacturing.

Interns at POLYMAT do not observe from a distance. They participate directly in research projects, gaining exposure to experimental techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration.

What the POLYMAT Internship Offers

The programme combines financial support with academic mentoring and laboratory training.

Monthly Stipend

Interns receive a monthly stipend of 560 €. This amount is intended to help cover living expenses during the 2.5-month internship period.

While it is partial funding, it significantly reduces the financial burden associated with short-term international research experiences.

Hands-On Research Experience

Interns work within one of POLYMAT’s specialized research groups. Activities may include:

• Polymer synthesis and characterization
• Material testing and analysis
• Data interpretation and reporting
• Laboratory equipment operation

The experience emphasizes practical laboratory skills, which are essential for students planning postgraduate studies.

Mentorship and Networking

Interns receive supervision from senior researchers in polymer science. This mentorship provides insight into:

• Research design and methodology
• Academic publishing standards
• Scientific presentation skills
• Career pathways in academia and industry

Working in a research center environment also allows interaction with doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scholars.

Research Areas Available in 2026

POLYMAT offers internships across several cutting-edge areas of polymer research.

Polymers and Energy

Research in this area addresses materials for batteries, fuel cells, and energy storage systems. Students may explore conductive polymers or materials that improve energy efficiency.

Polymers and Sustainability

Sustainability remains central to modern materials science. Interns may work on biodegradable polymers, recyclable materials, or green synthesis methods.

Polymer Physics and Advanced Manufacturing

This research field studies mechanical behavior, structural properties, and processing technologies. It connects polymer science with industrial manufacturing techniques.

Molecular and Supramolecular Materials

Projects in this area examine molecular interactions and the design of structured macromolecules. It bridges chemistry and materials engineering.

Polymers for Health

Biomedical polymers play a growing role in drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and medical devices. Interns may assist in developing materials suited for healthcare applications.

Polymerization Engineering and Simulation

This area combines chemical engineering with computational tools. Students interested in modeling and simulation may find valuable exposure here.

Each research area supports interdisciplinary learning and introduces students to real-world scientific challenges.

Who Can Apply for the POLYMAT Summer Internship 2026?

The internship is designed for undergraduate students nearing completion of their degree.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled in the third or fourth year of an undergraduate degree
• Study Chemistry or a closely related Science or Engineering discipline
• Demonstrate strong academic performance
• Show interest in polymer-related research

Fields such as Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, and related disciplines are eligible.

There is no specific GPA threshold mentioned. There are no explicit language requirements beyond general academic suitability for research work.

The programme is open to students of all nationalities.

Why Consider a Summer Research Internship in Spain?

A summer research internship offers more than laboratory experience. It provides early exposure to professional scientific environments.

Academic Preparation for Future Studies

Students considering a Master’s or PhD in polymer science or materials engineering can benefit from:

• Laboratory-based research training
• Academic references from established researchers
• A clearer understanding of research careers

Hands-on experience strengthens graduate school applications.

International Experience

Participating in a research programme in Spain introduces students to European academic culture. It develops cross-cultural communication skills and global awareness.

Living in Donostia-San Sebastián

Donostia-San Sebastián is a coastal city known for its research institutions and quality of life. The environment offers a balance

Spending 2.5 months in this setting can be personally enriching while remaining academically productive.

How the POLYMAT Internship Strengthens Career Development

Summer internships often shape academic and professional decisions.

Exposure to Advanced Materials Research

Working directly with advanced polymers introduces students to emerging fields that influence industries such as renewable energy, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Practical Laboratory Skills

Students develop technical skills that are difficult to acquire through coursework alone. These include experimental planning, laboratory safety practices, and scientific documentation.

Professional Connections

Networking within a research center can lead to:

• Recommendation letters
• Future collaborations
• Information about graduate programmes
• Insight into industry roles

For students at a transitional stage of their studies, this exposure is valuable.

Application Process for POLYMAT Summer Internship 2026

The application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation.

Step 1: Visit the Official Application Portal

Access the official internship page and review the application instructions carefully.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Fill out all required sections accurately. Provide academic details and relevant information about your background.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Applicants must typically submit:

• Academic transcript
• Curriculum Vitae
• Supporting documents as requested

Ensure that all files are clear and complete.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

All materials must be submitted before 6 March 2026. Late applications are not considered.

Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid technical issues close to the deadline.

Important Dates to Remember

• Application Deadline: 6 March 2026
• Programme Duration: 2.5 months in Summer 2026
• Location: Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain

Planning ahead is essential, especially for international students who may require travel arrangements.

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