Summer of Research 2026

In 2026, the program consists of two components:

• Participation in ISCOMS (1–4 June 2026)
• A research internship at the UMCG (starting 8 June 2026)

Students may apply for one or both components.

⚠️ Very Important: Two Separate Applications

1. ISCOMS Application (to ISCOMS)

• Students who wish to participate in ISCOMS with an abstract must submit their application directly through the ISCOMS application system.
• GSMS has no influence on ISCOMS application procedures or selection.

2. GSMS Sponsorship Application (to GSMS)

• Required for students who want any GSMS funding (for ISCOMS, internship, or both)
• Involves additional steps separate from ISCOMS
• Hard GSMS deadline: 1 February 2026

1. ISCOMS (1-4 June 2026)

ISCOMS is one of the world’s leading (bio)medical student congresses, featuring research presentations, keynote lectures, networking opportunities and hands-on workshops.

ISCOMS Applications (direct to ISCOMS)

Students who wish to participate in ISCOMS with an abstract must apply directly via the ISCOMS application system.

Important: ISCOMS may introduce a €20 application fee in 2026. This fee will be reimbursed by ISCOMS for students who are GSMS-sponsored and attend ISCOMS.

Key ISCOMS Deadlines

• Abstract submission deadline: 11 January 2026

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GSMS sponsorship for ISCOMS

Partner-university students who submit an abstract will receive a GSMS survey link in the week of 12 January 2026. To be considered for GSMS sponsorship, students must complete:

• GSMS sponsorship survey deadline: 1 February 2026 (hard deadline)

Eligibility for GSMS Sponsorship

GSMS may sponsor students who:

• submitted an abstract to ISCOMS by 11 January 2026
• completed the GSMS sponsorship survey by 1 February 2026
• are approved by their home university (if required)

Note: ISCOMS does not need to accept the abstract for the student to receive GSMS sponsorship. However, some Partner Universities may only approve student participation if the abstract has been accepted by ISCOMS.

What GSMS Covers for ISCOMS

For GSMS-sponsored students, GSMS covers:

• The ISCOMS registration fee
• ISCOMS-arranged housing and other required participation costs

2. Research Internship (from 8 June 2026 onward)

Students may undertake a research internship in a UMCG department aligned with their academic and research interests.

GSMS Research Voucher

• GSMS application deadline: 1 February 2026 (hard deadline)
• Applications must be pre-selected or endorsed by the Partner University.
• Standard duration: 4 weeks (General note: Non-EU nationals may not remain in Europe for more than 90 days without an appropriate visa.)
• GSMS provides a Research Voucher of up to €1,300 for a 4-week internship, scaled proportionally for shorter durations.

Alternative: ISCOMS International Research Fellowship (IRF)

• For ISCOMS abstract presenters selected by ISCOMS
• 8–18 June 2026
• Coordinated entirely by ISCOMS
• GSMS does not manage IRF selection or provide IRF funding

How to Apply – Research Internship

Submit the following documents to GSMS by 1 February 2026:

• Completed Research Internship Form (template provided below)
• English-language CV
• Statement of support from the home university (in exceptional cases this may be submitted after the deadline)

Important

Submitting an application does not guarantee placement. Placement depends on:

• Availability of relevant research expertise
• Approval of a UMCG hosting supervisor, which includes an online interview
• Approval from the Partner University

GSMS aims to match students to research groups that fit their academic interests. Because this process requires significant time and coordination, late applications cannot be considered.

UMCG Summer Schools

The GSMS may cover Summer School fees for selected students, subject to a formal request from partner institutions. The dates and list of Summer Schools for 2026 have not yet been announced. Interested Partners are encouraged to regularly check the Summer Schools dedicated page for updates.

In case partner institutions wish to request student placements in one or more of the Schools, they should let the GSMS know by as soon as possible. In your communication, mention:

• The number of positions requested
• The specific Summer Schools for which placements are desired

Selection of students for participation in the schools is the authority of the individual summer schools. Students should follow the application instructions of the school of their interest, in accordance with deadlines as announced.

Please note that the allocation of GSMS funding for Summer School participation is subject to the availability of funds.