Una Europa Summer School 2025 for doctoral researchers: Innovative Methods in Future Materials

The discovery of new materials has driven some of the most groundbreaking scientific advancements, shaping modern society. As a rapidly evolving field, Materials Science stands at the forefront of innovation, requiring interdisciplinary collaboration across physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and beyond. This cooperation is key to addressing global challenges such as sustainable material design, waste reduction, energy storage, and efficiency—essential for building a more resilient and sustainable future.

This Summer School offers a unique opportunity to engage in an immersive, multidisciplinary learning experience that goes beyond traditional classroom settings. Guided by mentors and professors from various scientific fields, you will:

• Gain in-depth knowledge of advanced methods for material preparation, including chemical and physical approaches.
• Explore key techniques in material characterisation, such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and diffraction.
• Develop essential research and professional skills, including teamwork, scientific communication, and presentation techniques.
• Understand the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex scientific challenges.

The course includes:

• Preliminary online session (3 hours in June).
• Intensive in-person programme (5 days in Madrid, 23–27 June).
• Final online meeting (2 hours in July).

Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate and 4 ECTS credits.

Additionally, the Summer School features a rich social and cultural programme, including visits to the Reina Sofía Museum and various research facilities at Universidad Complutense de Madrid.

There is no tuition fee for participants. Each participant is responsible for organising and financing their own accommodation for the duration of the five-day on-site programme at Universidad Complutense de Madrid. The university is working to offer affordable campus accommodation, with more details on this to be shared upon admission to the programme.

At most Una Europa partner universities, doctoral researchers can apply for Erasmus+ funding for Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) from their own university. Please note that the availability of funding depends on your home university. They will advise you on the availability and format of funding. Please contact your university’s institutional contact at the list below for more information on funding options.

List of institutional contact points for questions on funding to participate in the Summer School.

Please note: Erasmus+ funding for BIP mobility is not available for doctoral researchers from KU Leuven. Doctoral researchers from Edinburgh and Zürich are not eligible for Erasmus+ funding but may receive alternative funding from their home university.

This Summer School welcomes applications from:

• Master’s students and doctoral researchers in Materials Science or related fields across various disciplines, currently enrolled at an Una Europa partner university.
• Priority is given to doctoral researchers in their first two years.
• English proficiency: B2 level or higher is required to effectively engage with the programme.

Complete the application form by 21 March 2025 to register your interest. You will need to submit:

• Your CV.
• A motivation letter.
• University affiliation and contact details.

Successful candidates will be notified by 15 April. Further details on accommodation and logistics will be provided upon selection.