11 March 2025

Are you a master's student or doctoral researcher (y1/y2) in Material Science? Interested in innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to tackle global challenges like sustainable material design, waste reduction, and energy storage? Join the Innovative Methods in Future Materials Summer School, co-organised by Universidad Complutense de Madrid and Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna. This programme explores advanced material preparation and characterisation techniques, combining theory with hands-on experience in a dynamic international setting.

Why Participate?

This Summer School offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in an immersive, multidisciplinary learning experience beyond the traditional classroom setting. Guided by mentors and professors from various scientific fields, participants 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.

Programme Structure

The course consists of:

• Preliminary online session (3 hours in June 2025)

• Intensive in-person programme (5 days in Madrid, 23–27 June 2025)

• Final online meeting (2 hours in July 2025)

Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate and 4 ECTS credits. The Summer School also includes a rich social and cultural programme, including visits to the Reina Sofía Museum and various research facilities at Universidad Complutense de Madrid.

Costs and Funding

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. Two spots are available for master's students and/or PhD candidates at Leiden University. The selected candidates at Leiden University will be able to apply for Erasmus+ funding, to help cover these costs.

Application process

This Summer School welcomes applications from:

• Master’s students and doctoral researchers in Materials Science or related fields at Una Europa partner universities.

• Priority will be given to doctoral researchers in their first two years.

• English proficiency at B2 level or higher is required.

Interested candidates must complete the application form by 21 March 2025. The application should include:

• CV

• Motivation letter

• University affiliation and contact details

Successful candidates will be notified by 15 April 2025. Further details on accommodation and logistics will be provided upon selection.