VBC Summer School 2026 in Austria – Fully Funded Research Program
The Vienna BioCenter (VBC) Summer School 2026 is now open for applications, offering one of Europe’s most prestigious fully funded summer research programs for international students. The program is designed for Bachelor’s and Master’s students from around the world who wish to gain hands-on research experience at one of Europe’s leading life sciences research hubs.
The summer school will take place in Vienna, Austria, and will run for nine weeks from 1st July to 31st August 2026. Participants will work closely with top scientists at the Vienna BioCenter while gaining international research exposure, professional mentorship, and cultural experiences in Austria.
Program Overview
- Program Name: VBC Summer School 2026
- Host Institution: Vienna BioCenter (VBC)
- Host Country: Austria
- Location: Vienna
- Program Duration: 9 Weeks
- Program Dates: 1st July – 31st August 2026
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 11th January 2026
- Application Fee: None
- IELTS Requirement: Not required
Financial Benefits
The VBC Summer School 2026 is fully funded, and selected participants will receive the following benefits:
- Free furnished accommodation in Vienna
- Monthly stipend of €1,400 to cover living expenses
- Round-trip international airfare
- Health insurance coverage
- Unlimited public transportation pass for Vienna
- Access to all academic and social activities
Participants will also enjoy cultural and networking activities, including:
- Opening dinner
- Visits to famous landmarks in Vienna
- A traditional Austrian Heurigen visit
- Campus events and networking sessions
- Final summer school celebration
Research Areas
Participants will be assigned to research projects under the supervision of leading faculty members at the Vienna BioCenter. Available research fields include:
- Molecular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Bioinformatics
- RNA Biology
- Stem Cell Research
- Biochemistry
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Open to all nationalities
- Must be an undergraduate or master’s student
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s (BA/BSc Honours) or Master’s (MSc) degree
- Completed at least 2 years of a Bachelor’s degree or 1 year of a Master’s degree
- Academic background in Life Sciences (e.g., Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry)
- Strong academic record
- No age limit
- No prior research experience required
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents online:
- Proof of enrolment (current institution)
- Academic transcripts or exam results
- Proof of enrolment for the next academic year
- Personal statement
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the official Vienna BioCenter website. During the application process, applicants are required to select three preferred lab heads in order of preference.
- Selection Results: Announced in March 2026
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Why Apply for the VBC Summer School?
- Gain hands-on research experience in Europe
- Work with world-class scientists and laboratories
- Receive full financial support
- Build a strong academic and research profile
- Experience life and culture in Vienna, one of the world’s most livable cities
- Strengthen future Master’s, PhD, or research career prospects

