RIG Internship Program 2026: Building Diverse Pathways into Robotics Research
Tomorrow’s robotics will only succeed if it draws on a broad range of talents and perspectives. With this ambition, the Robotics Institute Germany (RIG) continues its successful RIG Internship Program (RIGI), coordinated by the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) in Stuttgart. Together, we open structured entry points into top-level research and help promising students take a confident first step into the field of Robotics.
What the program offers
RIGI is a fully funded, hands-on internship (up to 90 days) for bachelor’s and master’s students worldwide. Interns join leading MPI-IS labs, contribute to a defined research project, and work in areas such as haptics, human-robot interaction, machine learning, microrobotics, soft robotics, and many more. Talks, lab tours, and workshops complement the lab experience, while mentors and supervisors offer close scientific guidance in an international environment.
Who should apply
We welcome applicants enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s program with backgrounds in engineering, computer science, physics, materials science, or related fields. We particularly encourage candidates whose paths into research have been less straightforward: curiosity, resilience, and a readiness to learn matter.
Why RIG & MPI-IS
As a national robotics network, RIG works with partners like MPI-IS to expand access to excellent research, strengthen talent pipelines, and connect people and ideas across institutions. RIGI is one way we turn that ambition into practice – by creating tangible opportunities to learn, contribute, and grow within Germany’s robotics ecosystem.
Key dates at a glance
Application window: Oct 20 – Nov 20, 2025
Interviews: Jan – early Feb 2026
Decisions: Feb 2026
Start: Flexible start dates; July 2026 is the core on-site month in Stuttgart.
Benefits
Paid internship
Visa support via the MPI-IS International Office
Assistance with finding accommodation
Travel support (subject to funding)
Access to scientific and community events
Continuous support from the RIGI coordination team
Ready to join?
Applications are now open. Explore projects, eligibility, and requirements, and submit your materials via the online portal.
Learn more about the RIGI program, eligibility, and application process
Apply now via the RIGI online portal
Contact
Most questions are answered in our FAQs.
If you can’t find what you need, please contact us.
Robotics Institute Germany
Thomas Halsner
thomas.halsner@tum.de
RIGI Internship Program
Birgül Akolpoglu
rigi@is.mpg.de
