The Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies (MPIfG) conducts basic research on the governance of modern societies. It aims to develop an empirically based theory of the social and political foundations of modern economies by investigating the interrelation between social, economic, and political action. Student internships in ongoing research projects at the MPIfG are available for 2026.
Student Internships
Internships offer:
- insights into basic research,
- familiarization with research processes,
- participation in data collection, processing, and analysis,
- literature and data research,
- application of research methods in a research project.
Internships are open to students who:
- are studying economics or social sciences,
- are in at least the fifth semester of a BA or any semester of an MA program,
- are enrolled at a university during the internship,
- have a strong interest in social science research,
- have very good grades.
Your internship at the MPIfG:
As an intern at the MPIfG, you will be part of an ongoing research project and can participate in lectures, seminars, and internal professional development. Voluntary internships are for a maximum of twelve weeks; for compulsory internships, please specify the period prescribed in your study regulations. The MPIfG provides an allowance of 450 euros per month in accordance with federal internship guidelines.
A collaborative and collegial working environment is integral to the MPIfG. Starting from the application process, we are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all of our employees. The compatibility of career and family is also one of our key concerns, as is the employment of people with disabilities.
How to apply:
We look forward to receiving your application, which should include a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, copies of your transcripts and certificates, current proof of enrolment, and a copy of a relevant seminar paper (excerpt of up to 10 pages). Please state the desired length of your internship in your cover letter and explain which of the MPIfG’s current research projects are especially interesting to you. Research projects of directors, emeriti, and visiting researchers are unfortunately not eligible for internships.
The availability of an internship at the Institute depends on demand within the individual research projects. Please apply around 8 months in advance. Applications can only be made online and uploaded as a single PDF file. We regret that we cannot consider applications by post or email.
