ESO Internships 2026 in Germany (Complete Guide to Benefits, Eligibility, and How to Apply) Deadline: 31 December, 2026

If you’re a student who wants real experience in astronomy, engineering, or science communication, the European Southern Observatory (ESO) offers some of the best internships in the world. These internships take place in Garching, near Munich, where ESO operates one of the most advanced scientific campuses in Europe.

Here’s everything you need to know before applying.

ESO Internship Summary

Host Country	Germany
Host Organisation	European Organisation for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere (ESO)
Eligible Nationalities	All
Internship Duration	6 Months
Deadline	31 December 2026

Why ESO Internships Stand Out

ESO isn’t a typical research center. It runs the world-class Very Large Telescope in Chile and works on next-generation observatories that push the limits of science and technology.

An internship here gives you a chance to:

• Work alongside international scientists, engineers, and communicators
• Join real projects that support major astronomical missions
• Grow your skills in a highly technical and collaborative environment

The experience is a big career boost for anyone entering science, engineering, media production, or research.

Benefits You Receive as an ESO Intern

ESO makes sure interns are supported so they can focus on learning and contributing. Here’s what you get:

• Monthly allowance to cover living costs
• Free accommodation near the ESO campus
• Paid round-trip travel from your home country to Germany
• Access to a global scientific workplace with people from many backgrounds
• Practical training in real projects instead of routine tasks

Whether you’re working in science communication, engineering, or audiovisual production, you’ll gain experience that stands out on any CV.

Available Positions at ESO

These are the positions currently available at ESO

• Audiovisual Media Internship
• Director of Programmes
• Schülerpraktikum/Pupils Internship
• Engineering Internship
• Integrated Operations Programme Controller
• Astronomer / VLTI Project Scientist
• ELT Programme Scientist
• DevOps Engineer
• CTAO-South Site Manager

Who Can Apply for an ESO Internship?

The eligibility criteria are straightforward:

• You must be enrolled in a university or technical program
• Your field should match the internship type. This could include:
  • Engineering
  • Physics
  • Astronomy
  • Science communication
  • Media production
• You need good English skills, since most work is done in English
• Students from any country can apply, though member-state students may be prioritized

If your degree requires an internship or practical training, ESO is an ideal place to complete it.

Documents You Need for the Application

Make sure to prepare these before applying:

• CV with academic background and relevant experience
• Motivation letter (why you want this internship and what you can contribute)
• Proof of enrollment from your university
• Work samples, if required
  • Writing samples for communication/media internships
  • Technical project summaries for engineering internships

Uploading complete and clear documents increases your chances of being shortlisted.

How to Apply for an ESO Internship

Applying is simple and done entirely online:

1. Visit the official ESO recruitment portal: recruitment.eso.org
2. Open the “Internships” section
3. Choose the internship that fits your field
4. Create an account on the portal
5. Upload all required documents
6. Submit your application

ESO reviews internship applications on a rolling basis, so applying early is a smart move. Once selected, you’ll receive details about your accommodation, allowance, and the start of your internship in Germany.

ESO internships are competitive, but they’re also one of the most valuable opportunities for students interested in astronomy, technology, or science communication. If you want hands-on experience at an institution shaping the future of space exploration, this is the place to start.