CISPA Summer Research Internship Program 2027 in Germany

Applications are open for the CISPA Summer Research (CSR) Internship Program 2027, offering bachelor’s and master’s students an opportunity to gain practical research experience at one of Germany’s leading research centres in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. The programme provides a paid research placement lasting two to three months, during which participants work alongside experienced researchers on current scientific questions.

The internship is organised by CISPA, a research centre within the Helmholtz Association that focuses on information security, privacy and artificial intelligence. Participants will join a research group, contribute to its activities and develop their understanding of how academic research is conducted. The programme is particularly suited to students interested in pursuing research careers or gaining advanced technical experience before completing their degrees.

About the CISPA Summer Research Internship

The CISPA Summer Research programme gives undergraduate and master's students an opportunity to experience research in an active scientific environment. Interns work directly with researchers and become involved in the activities of their assigned research groups.

Research areas include:

• Cryptography: Exploring techniques that protect information and enable secure digital communication.
• Computer security: Investigating vulnerabilities, security technologies and methods for protecting computer systems.
• Privacy: Studying approaches that safeguard personal information and improve privacy in digital environments.
• Machine learning and artificial intelligence: Contributing to research into intelligent systems, machine learning methods and related technologies.

The specific research experience will depend on the group and project to which an intern is assigned. Participants should therefore have relevant academic interests and explain clearly in their motivation letters why they wish to work in their preferred research areas.

Internship Benefits

The CSR programme offers financial compensation and opportunities to develop research skills while working with experienced academics.

1. Monthly compensation

Interns receive approximately €2,568.80 to €2,671.89 per month before taxes, depending on their qualifications. CISPA describes this payment as compensation for the voluntary internship.

2. Practical research experience

Participants join a CISPA research group and take part in its research activities. They gain first hand experience investigating open research questions, developing ideas and working with researchers in their chosen fields.

3. Research development sessions

The programme includes additional sessions designed to help participants become more effective researchers. Topics include scientific writing, presenting research findings and research ethics in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

4. Certificate of completion

Participants who successfully complete the research internship and accompanying programme receive a certificate.

5. Networking and academic exchange

CSR sessions and social activities allow interns to meet other students and researchers across CISPA. These interactions provide opportunities to exchange ideas, learn about different research areas and build professional relationships.

6. International research environment

The internship offers students exposure to an international research centre and the opportunity to understand how advanced research teams approach technical challenges.

Eligibility Requirements

The programme is open to students pursuing relevant bachelor's or master's degrees. Applicants must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Relevant academic programme: Applicants must be enrolled in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, telecommunications or an equivalent field.
2. Accepted qualifications: Eligible programmes include Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Engineering (BEng), Bachelor of Technology (BTech), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Engineering (MEng) and Master of Technology (MTech).
3. Completed semesters: Applicants must have completed at least four semesters of their degree programme by the time the internship begins.
4. Continued student enrolment: Candidates must remain enrolled as students throughout the entire internship period. Applicants who will graduate before or during the placement should carefully check whether they can meet this condition.
5. English proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient English language skills to participate in research activities and communicate effectively.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before completing the online application:

• Motivation letter: Explain your research interests, academic background and reasons for applying. CISPA recommends one page, with a maximum length of two pages.
• Curriculum vitae: Provide information about your education, relevant experience and academic or technical skills. The recommended length is one page, with a maximum of two pages.
• Academic transcript: Submit your latest academic transcript in English. All transcript pages should be combined into one PDF document.
• English language assessment: Provide an English language test result or a statement explaining your English language experience, such as studying or working in an English speaking environment.
• Degree certificates: Applicants currently pursuing a master's degree must provide their bachelor's degree certificate in English.
• References: Contact details for potential referees may be included as an optional part of the application.

Applicants should ensure that their documents are readable, accurate and consistent with the information entered in the online form.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible students should submit their applications through the official CISPA internship application portal.

Follow these steps:

1. Review the eligibility criteria: Confirm that your degree programme is relevant, that you have completed at least four semesters and that you will remain enrolled throughout the internship.
2. Identify your research interests: Consider which areas of CISPA research align with your academic background and future goals.
3. Prepare your motivation letter: Explain why you want to join the programme, what research topics interest you and how the internship fits into your academic development.
4. Prepare your supporting documents: Organise your CV, academic transcript, English language assessment and relevant degree certificates.
5. Complete the online application: Visit the official application portal, provide the requested information and upload the required documents.
6. Submit before the deadline: Ensure that your application is complete and submitted by the closing time.