ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships Program 2026 in Spain

The ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships Program 2026 is an excellent opportunity for international Master’s students seeking advanced quantum science research fellowships in Spain. Hosted by ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences in Barcelona, this program supports research stays or thesis projects under the prestigious Digitally Enhanced Quantum Technology Master (DigiQ) initiative.

As part of Europe’s leading Quantum Science and Technology (QST) network, the fellowship nurtures the next generation of scientists and innovators in Photonics, Quantum Engineering, and Nanotechnology.

Host Institution

Institute: ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Program Type: Research Fellowship
Funding Type: Partial Funding

The ICFO is one of Europe’s top research institutes, recognized globally for its excellence in quantum optics and photonics research.

Degree Level

The ICFO DigiQ Fellowship 2026 is open to students currently pursuing a Master’s degree at a DigiQ partner or affiliated institution.

This makes it an ideal Master’s fellowship in Europe for students specializing in Quantum Science and related fields.

Available Research Fields

The ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships focus on advanced topics within Quantum Science and Technology (QST), offering students access to diverse interdisciplinary research areas, including:

• Quantum Optics and Quantum Information

• Quantum Communications and Cryptography

• Quantum Sensing and Metrology

• Quantum Simulation and Computation

• Nanophotonics and Quantum Nanotechnology

• Ultrafast Optics and Atto-Science

• Light-Matter Interaction

• Condensed Matter and Quantum Materials

• Biophotonics and Biomedical Optics

• Theoretical Quantum Physics

These research areas align with Quantum Science scholarships in Europe, enabling students to explore real-world applications of photonics and quantum technologies.

Fellowship Benefits

The ICFO DigiQ Fellowship 2026 in Spain provides substantial academic and financial benefits for selected students:

• Duration: Up to 12 months

• Monthly Stipend:

  • €300/month (if home institution is in Catalonia)

  • €600/month (if home institution is outside Catalonia)

• Travel Support: Travel expenses to Catalonia are covered

• Compatibility: Can be combined with Erasmus+ and CQA Student Mobility Fellowships

• Research Environment: Access to ICFO’s world-class laboratories and research infrastructure

• Networking Opportunities: Collaboration with international experts in Quantum Technology

This makes it one of the best partially funded fellowships in Spain for international students in 2026.

Eligible Nationalities

The ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowship is open to students of all nationalities, provided they are enrolled in a DigiQ partner or affiliated university.

ICFO promotes diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, encouraging applications from students worldwide interested in Quantum Science scholarships in Spain.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the ICFO DigiQ Fellowship 2026, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Enrollment in a Master’s program at a DigiQ partner or affiliated institution

• Participation or commitment to join the DigiQ network

• Strong academic record in Physics, Quantum Engineering, or Nanotechnology

• Proficiency in English

• Demonstrated motivation, teamwork skills, and research potential

Applicants pursuing Quantum Science scholarships for Master’s students are highly encouraged to apply.

Application Process

The application process for the ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowships 2026 includes two key steps:

1. Document Submission

Applicants must submit the following documents in English:

• Cover Letter: Mention preferred ICFO research group, duration, DigiQ involvement, and career objectives

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Academic Transcripts: Undergraduate and Master’s studies

• Reference Contact: Details of one referee or letter of recommendation

2. Review and Selection

• Applications are screened for eligibility

• Shortlisted candidates are evaluated by a selection committee

• Finalists may be invited for an interview (online or in-person)

• Successful candidates receive an official offer letter

Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until positions are filled. Results are announced within two months of submission.

Program Summary

Why Choose the ICFO DigiQ Fellowship in Spain?

The ICFO DigiQ Fellowship Program 2026 is an outstanding opportunity for students aspiring to build a career in Quantum Science and Technology. Participants benefit from:

• Hands-on research experience in a leading European quantum institute

• Exposure to cutting-edge technology and interdisciplinary collaboration

• International networking opportunities

• Career advancement prospects in Quantum Technology, Photonics, and Nanotechnology

This fellowship not only enhances research skills but also opens global career pathways for future scientists and engineers.

visit official ICFO DigiQ Fellowship in Spain Webpage

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – ICFO DigiQ Student Research Fellowship 2026