The Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) Germany program, organized by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), offers an exceptional opportunity for undergraduate students from North America, the United Kingdom, and Ireland to participate in summer research at top German universities and research institutions. The program aims to foster international collaboration and provide students with hands-on experience in scientific and engineering research under the mentorship of doctoral candidates or experienced researchers.
Each year, hundreds of motivated undergraduates are matched with research groups across Germany for a 10 to 12-week internship between May and August. Through this initiative, participants gain exposure to cutting-edge scientific work while developing their technical, analytical, and intercultural skills. The program is a stepping stone toward graduate study and international research careers.
Program Objectives
The RISE Germany program seeks to promote scientific cooperation and cultural exchange between Germany and English-speaking nations. It provides a platform for students to:
- Acquire hands-on research experience in a professional German laboratory or university environment.
- Strengthen their understanding of scientific inquiry, experimentation, and problem-solving.
- Build professional relationships and international networks within the research community.
- Cultivate cultural awareness and adaptability by working in a global scientific environment.
- Inspire future academic and career pursuits in Germany or other international research settings.
Program Benefits
Selected interns receive comprehensive financial and logistical support to make their experience both enriching and accessible. The benefits include a monthly stipend typically between €934 and €1,049 to cover living expenses, along with health, accident, and liability insurance. Partial travel funding is also provided to help offset international airfare costs. Host institutions assist students in finding accommodation and settling into their new environment.
Additionally, participants are invited to attend a three-day networking meeting in Germany, where they can interact with fellow RISE scholars, share experiences, and learn more about career opportunities in science and engineering. The working language for most internships is English, making the program accessible to students without German language proficiency, although basic German knowledge is always an advantage.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program at a university in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or Ireland. Eligible fields of study include biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, computer science, earth sciences, and related disciplines. Students must have completed at least two years of university coursework by the time of application and must maintain undergraduate status throughout the internship period.
German citizens are eligible only if they have lived outside Germany for at least six consecutive years. While English is the main working language, applicants should possess strong communication and teamwork skills, as collaboration with international peers is a key part of the experience.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit the following materials:
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English.
- A personalized motivation letter tailored to each selected research project.
- An official academic transcript showing courses and grades.
- A list of relevant coursework if not clearly shown on the transcript.
- A recommendation letter from a university professor or research advisor.
- Proof of current enrollment and a copy of the passport.
Application Process
Interested students must apply through the official DAAD RISE online portal. After registering, applicants can browse the database of available research projects and select up to three that align with their academic background and research interests. All documents should be uploaded in PDF format before the deadline. The academic referee will be asked to submit their recommendation separately.
Applications are reviewed by German research supervisors, and selection is based on academic performance, motivation, and suitability for the chosen projects. Successful applicants are usually notified between February and March.
Timeline for the 2025–2026 Cycle
- Applications open: October 15, 2025
- Application deadline: November 30, 2025
- Recommendation letters due: December 15, 2025
- Selection process: January 13–26, 2026
- Internship duration: May to September 2026 (10–12 weeks)
- Networking event in Germany: Early July 2026
Conclusion
The RISE Germany Internship Program is more than a research opportunity it is a transformative international experience that empowers undergraduates to advance their academic and professional growth. By engaging with cutting-edge research in an intercultural environment, participants develop the scientific, professional, and interpersonal skills necessary to thrive in a globalized world.
