Are you fascinated by stars, galaxies, black holes, and the mysteries of the universe? If yes, then here’s an incredible opportunity to start your journey into the world of astronomy and astrophysics. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is inviting applications for its Summer Internship / Project Work Program 2025 for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Whether you’re a final-year student or a graduate seeking real research experience, IIA’s internship program provides a unique platform to work alongside India’s leading astronomers and astrophysicists.
About the Program
The IIA Summer Internship is designed to provide students with first-hand research experience in cutting-edge areas like:
• Observational astronomy
• Space instrumentation
• Computational astrophysics
• Solar physics
• Galactic and extragalactic studies
Interns get the chance to collaborate on live research projects, interact with national and international scientists, and experience the real-world workings of an advanced research institution.
Useful Summary
| Internship Name | Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) Summer Internship 2025 |
| Institution | Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru |
| Start Date | May/June 2025 (Flexible) |
| Duration | 3 to 12 Months (Based on project) |
| Stipend | May be provided (Based on availability & request) |
| Mode | Offline (On-site at IIA Campuses or Collaborative Locations) |
| Location | IIA HQ (Bengaluru) and associated centers |
| Apply Status | Open Now (Faculty-based application) |
Who Can Apply?
Students who meet the following criteria are eligible:
• Final-year students of B.E/B.Tech/M.Sc/M.Tech
• Degree holders of B.Sc/B.E/B.Tech/M.Sc/M.Tech seeking short-term research work (3–12 months)
• PhD students from other universities seeking collaboration with IIA scientists (up to 6 months)
• PhD holders who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting viva (up to 6 months)
Preferred disciplines: Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, Space Sciences, Computational Physics, Applied Math, or Engineering with astronomy interest.
Terms of Engagement
• Duration ranges from 3 months to 12 months, based on mutual agreement
• Selected candidates may receive stipend support (optional upon request)
• Interns will work under faculty mentors and be involved in actual research
• Interns may get the opportunity to attend seminars and interact with visiting scientists
• Accommodation is not guaranteed – candidates may need to arrange their own stay depending on the location
Essential Documents
Applicants must prepare and send the following:
• Updated Resume / CV
• A motivation letter including:
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Why you want an internship at IIA (≤100 words)
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Why you’re interested in the chosen research topic
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Explanation of one research paper by your chosen faculty (≤250 words)
• Preferred internship period
• Mention if you require a stipend
How to Apply (Faculty-Based Process)
Step-by-step Application Process:
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Visit the list of IIA faculty:
https://www.iiap.res.in/people/faculty (or check individual departments) -
Explore faculty profiles and read one of their published research papers:
Use: https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/ -
Prepare a personalized application with your CV and write-up
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Email your application to the chosen faculty member only
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If selected, the faculty will guide you further for onboarding and registration
Status Check (If Any)
• The selection process is individual faculty-driven
• You will receive a reply via email from the faculty if shortlisted
• No public result list is published
• If no response after 2 weeks, you may send a polite follow-up or contact another faculty member
Important Dates & Links
• Preferred Internship Period: May – December 2025
• Application Window: Open Year-Round
• Minimum Duration: 3 Months
• Official Website: https://www.iiap.res.in
• Faculty Directory: https://www.iiap.res.in/people/faculty
• Research Database: https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the IIA Internship 2025 paid?
Stipend may be provided based on availability and faculty approval. It is optional—mention in your application if required.
Q: What is the typical internship duration?
Internships can range from 3 to 12 months, depending on project scope and your availability.
Q: Who can apply for the IIA Summer Internship?
Final-year students, degree holders, PhD candidates (including those awaiting viva) from relevant science and engineering fields.
Q: How do I apply for the internship?
Email your application and research motivation directly to a faculty member whose work aligns with your interests.
Q: Will accommodation be provided?
Accommodation is not guaranteed. Students may need to arrange their own stay near IIA centers.
Q: Can I contact multiple faculty members?
No. Contact only one faculty at a time. Multiple simultaneous emails will lead to disqualification.