How far will you go? The IA Summer Program 2026 is your launchpad to the Universe — from 6 to 24 July.
The program offers hands-on training in research methods, techniques, and processes in Astrophysics and Space Sciences. Participants will carry out a research project within one of the Institute of Astrophysics and Space Sciences’ (IA) dynamic fields, spanning both scientific research and science communication.
You will be supervised and supported by IA researchers or science communicators, and at the final seminar you will present the discoveries you have made along the journey. Apply until 12th June (details below).
Format of the program:
This year’s edition of the IA Summer Program will be conducted both online and/or in person. Participation is free of charge. Admission is subject to an application process and the selection of candidates by a designated jury.
Participants are expected to commit up to 6 hours per day on weekdays. Online and/or in-person sessions and meetings will be scheduled within the time window of 09:00 to 18:00 (Lisbon time, UTC+1).
The IA Summer Program is open to both Portuguese and international students enrolled in Bachelor’s or Master’s programs. The working language will be Portuguese and/or English, depending on the project and participants.
Detailed information about the available projects can be found here. Applications must be submitted via an online form, where applicants should indicate their preferred projects (up to a maximum of 2).
The jury’s decision will be formally communicated to applicants by email between the 26th and 27th of June.
All participants enrolled in the program are expected to follow the IA Code of Conduct for events, available here.
How to apply
To apply, please fill the form below until 12th June.
Apply here to IA Summer Program
Important Dates
Application of selected candidates to Projects
- 1. Opening of Application to Projects : 1st June
- 2. Closing of Application to Projects : 12th June (12:00 UTC)
- 3. Projects Allocation Announcements : 26th and 27th of June
Start of IA Summer Program : 6th July
End of IA Summer Program : 24th July
Requirements of IA Summer Program
- Personal computer for independent work
- Internet Connection
- Webcam and microphone
Minimum achievements required to be entitled to the IA Summer Program certificate:
- Present your work at the final seminar.
- Attend at least 90 % of the project meetings.
- Present results for every proposed task during the program.
- Participate actively in the discussion of the results.
- Have the video option turned on during all online project meetings.
What past participants said
“It was really helpful to decide what I want to study and do in my future as a student.”
“It has helped me understand what astrophysics really is and what researchers do.”
“I was looking for a starting point for my journey. This program has provided me with that.”
“The mentors were super friendly and it was wonderful interacting with them.”
