ESO (the European Southern Observatory) is offering the ESO Science Communication Internship 2026, a fully funded 6-month program for aspiring science writers and communicators. Based at ESO’s headquarters in Garching (near Munich), Germany, this internship is run by ESO’s Department of Communication. As an intern you’ll work with professional science communicators to craft news stories, press releases, web articles, video scripts, and exhibition materials about cutting-edge astronomy research.Importantly, the internship covers all major costs: interns receive a monthly living stipend, furnished accommodation, and reimbursement for one round-trip ticket home. This makes it a rare fully funded opportunity to gain hands-on experience in science outreach at a world-class research organization.

Who Can Apply for the ESO Science Communication Internship 2026?

The ESO Science Communication Internship 2026 seeks candidates who combine a strong science background with excellent writing skills. Ideal applicants are currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a university program in a relevant field. Specifically:

• Academic background: Currently studying or recently completed a degree in science (physics, astronomy, etc.), science communication, or science journalism. (Hold a degree in astronomy? That’s fine if you have science-writing experience.)

• Writing experience: Some previous experience in written science communication or journalism is expected. You should be comfortable translating complex research into engaging stories for non-experts.

• Science knowledge: Enough background in astronomy or physics to understand research papers. The ability to grasp scientific concepts is essential for writing accurately about them.

• Language: Full fluency in English (written and spoken) is mandatory, since all work (and application materials) must be in English.

• Other skills: Strong communication and teamwork skills. You must be able to meet deadlines, work independently and collaboratively, and build positive relationships with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. ESO highlights the ability to write clearly, work under pressure, and adapt to an international environment as key competencies.

International eligibility: The internship is open worldwide (no nationality is excluded). In practice, ESO encourages applications from students in its Member States (for example many European countries and Australia). Chilean applicants are also welcome provided they are enrolled at a university in South America. In summary, international students and graduates may apply, but remember to note your nationality and, if applicable, Chilean university enrollment in your application.

Internship Details and Benefits of the ESO Science Communication Internship 2026

Work environment: Interns work on-site at ESO Headquarters in Garching, Germany. The position is not remote or hybrid – interns spend six months full-time in ESO’s communications offices Through daily tasks, you learn ESO’s workflows and how a major scientific organization operates. For example, interns often assist with drafting ESO news releases and web content, writing articles for publications, preparing scripts for outreach videos, and helping design exhibit panels or other public outreach materials.

Compensation and support: The internship is fully funded. ESO provides:

• Financial support: A monthly stipend (allowance) to cover living costs in Munich.

• Housing: Furnished accommodation is arranged and paid for by ESO.

• Travel: A round-trip flight between your home country and Germany is covered.

These benefits ensure you can focus on the work without worrying about expenses.

Duration: Each internship lasts 6 months. Positions are offered throughout the year (internships can start at various times), so you can indicate your preferred start date. Typical start months in past years have included January/February or mid-year, but exact timing is flexible.

Professional experience: Besides tangible benefits, interns gain invaluable experience. You will collaborate with ESO’s science communication team and get to network with astronomers, journalists, and educators. You’ll learn to explain frontier science in clear language – a skill emphasized in the program’s learning goals.

Application Process and Timeline

To apply for the ESO Science Communication Internship 2026, you must submit an online application through ESO’s official careers portal. Prepare the following materials in English:

• Motivation Letter: A 1-page letter explaining your interest and fit for the internship.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A 2-page CV outlining your education and relevant experience.

• Writing Samples: Two examples (up to 5 pages each) of your science communication work. These can be blog posts, magazine or newspaper articles, press releases, etc. (Do not submit academic papers or theses; the samples must target a general audience.) The samples need not be published; you may write or adapt pieces specifically for the application.

Submit all documents via the ESO jobs portal (see “Apply” section on ESO’s website). Important: ESO will only consider complete applications submitted in English. Incomplete applications or materials in other languages will be rejected.

Timeline: The application is rolling – there is no single deadline. Applications are reviewed approximately every 4–6 months. When you apply, be sure to indicate your preferred internship start date. To increase your chances of a 2026 start, plan to apply several months in advance of that date (for example, applying by late 2025 for an early-2026 start).

Summary

The ESO Science Communication Internship 2026 is an excellent, fully funded opportunity for anyone who wants to bridge astronomy and media. It offers practical experience in a friendly, international setting and covers all major costs. If you have a science background, good writing skills, and a passion for outreach, this internship could be your chance to work on real astronomy stories. Don’t miss this chance – prepare your motivation letter, CV, and writing samples, and apply through the ESO careers portal.

Good luck with your application!

Sources: Official ESO job announcement for the Science Communication Internship (covers requirements, benefits, and application details).