[Netherlands] University of Groningen – Abel Tasman Summer of Research 2026 (ISCOMS & Research Internship)

Greetings from Netherlands!

University of Groningen, located in the Netherlands, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, founded in 1614. Known for its strong emphasis on research, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs across various fields including science, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and medical sciences. It is renowned for its international outlook, with a large number of international students and partnerships with universities worldwide. The university’s vibrant academic community and its historic yet modern campus contribute to a dynamic learning environment.

We are pleased to inform you that the application for University of Groningen Abel Tasman Summer of Research 2026 (ISCOMS & Research Internship) is now open.

Website Information

Program Information

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

• In 2026, the Graduate School of Medical Sciences (GSMS) at the University of Groningen/University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) will once again offer sponsorship for the Summer of Research (SoR) program to students from its selected international Partners. The program consists of:
  1. Participation in ISCOMS (1–4 June 2026)
  2. A research internship from 8 June 2026
  Students may participate in one or both components.

FUNDING ELIGIBILITY

The GSMS sponsorship is designed to support students from academic partners who intend to apply to an ATTP Sandwich PhD position, or who are considering an externally funded research master’s or (sandwich) PhD program. We welcome applications from:
• Master’s students or graduates
• Early-stage PhD candidates

1. ISCOMS (1–4 June 2026)

ISCOMS is one of the world’s leading (bio)medical student congresses, featuring student presentations, keynote lectures, and hands-on workshops.

GSMS Covers for ISCOMS: 

• Full coverage of ISCOMS fees for Partner students who submitted an abstract, completed the survey by 1 February 2026, and were selected by the GSMS (whether accepted or rejected by ISCOMS).
• Optional coverage for non-presenting participants upon Partner request.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

• Students can apply directly by submitting an abstract to ISCOMS. Kindly refer to the Registration Website.
• The deadline is 11 January 2026.

2. Research Internship (from 8 June 2026 onwards)

Students may undertake a research internship in a UMCG department aligned with their interests. Standard duration is 4 weeks, extendable up to a maximum of 90 days total stay in Europe with additional (external, non-GSMS) funding and supervisor approval.

GSMS Covers for Research Internship:

• ATTP Research Internship: Research Voucher up to €1,300 for a four-week internship (adjusted for different durations).

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

• Students can apply directly to UMCG by submitting required documents. Kindly refer to the Registration Website.
• The deadline is 01 February 2026.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

1. A Research Interest Request Form (download)
2. An English-language CV
3. If applicable, a statement of approval from the home university confirming the student’s eligibility to undertake the mobility

SUMMER SCHOOLS

• The GSMS may cover Summer School fees for selected students, subject to a formal request from partner institutions. The dates and list of Summer Schools for 2026 have not yet been announced. Interested Partners are encouraged to regularly check the Summer Schools dedicated page for updates.

IMPORTANT NOTES

• Students can also review the internship application process at www.groningenbiomed.com/SoR2026
• GSMS sponsorship is not limited to students whose submitted abstract is selected by ISCOMS. GSMS may sponsor candidates who:
  – Meet the GSMS sponsorship selection criteria, as evaluated through the survey due 1 February 2026, and
  – Have permission from their home university to participate in ISCOMS (if applicable).
• Note that placement for the Research Internship cannot be guaranteed. It depends on:
  – Availability of relevant research expertise
  – Approval of a UMCG hosting supervisor, which includes an online interview
  – Approval from the Partner University

CONSULTATION INFO

If you have any questions regarding this program, you can contact email below:

• Manu Barba – m.m.barba@umcg.nl
• Joyce Fongers – j.e.fongers@rug.nl