InnoNext identifies, facilitates and supports internships proposed by Hosting Companies committed to pushing boundaries and willing to collaborate to translate research advancements into innovations, accelerating your journey from research to real-world application.
Innovation Internship organized by InnoNext will be across two specialized streams:
DEEP TECH TALENTS: Research-focused internships offering hands-on experience with advanced projects, where interns work closely with the hosting company to address complex technical challenges. Eligible applicants include PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers currently involved in ERC, EIC Pathfinder, EIT EU Research & Infrastructure actions, and MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships, Doctoral Networks and COFUND project. Duration: 3-6 months.
ASPIRING INNOVATORS: Entrepreneurship-focused internships where aspiring innovators develop business attitude and competences through expert mentoring, while gaining practical insights into innovative companies. Open to students in and graduates from EIT Label Masters and Doctoral programs, EIT Alumni, EIT Jumpstarter. Duration: up to 6 months.
Until July 2026, InnoNext implements an enduring open call, where companies and researchers can apply at any time to find their ideal match and begin an Innovation internship. Visit the website to explore new vacancies, additional resources, and upcoming updates.
The costs of the Innovation internships will be covered either by the EU partner programmes in which the researchers are involved or by InnoNext.
The path to get an Innovation Internship?
Step 1 - Create your profile Complete the form on the InnoNext website to set up your profile. Ensure all required information is filled out, and upload your CV.
Step 2 - Explore the Innovation Internship Vacancies Explore the Innovation Internship opportunities posted by Hosting Companies and take a closer look at those recommended for you through the matchmaking process.
Step 3 - Apply Once you have identified internship opportunities that align with your interests, proceed to submit your application. As part of this process, you are required to complete and upload the Declaration of Honor (.pdf),confirming that you have informed and received the consent from your employer as well as your Project Coordinator, Principal Investigator, or Activity Leader. To ensure transparency and facilitate communication, you are encouraged to share the internship details along with the InnoNext Letter of Commitment (find the template on the Resource page).
Step 4 - Attend the Interview Join the interview(s) to learn more about the Hosting Company and the specific activities involved in the Innovation internship. Step 5 - Get ready for the Innovation internship Once you and the company agree on the internship details, the company will send you the completed and signed Letter of Commitment and you will have to sign Annex 2 and send it back in order to activate the internship.
Step 6 - Start the Innovation internship Get settled, know the Hosting Company, and make the most of InnoNext’s mentoring resources and workshops. Share your feedback to help improve the experience for future interns.
