IFB offers internship opportunities to students and graduates in political science or the social sciences. The internship can be completed on a full or part-time basis as part of your course of study or as additional professional training.
1. Aims of the internship:
The goal of an IFB internship is to give the intern the widest possible practical insight into the day-to-day work of the research professional by participating in all aspects of the institute’s work. Special interests in a specific work area are taken into account when assigning tasks.
2. General requirements for an internship:
- university degree or diploma - either completed or started - in political science, social science, administration or a comparable field of study
- at least 18 years of age
- applicants who are not nationals of a member state of the European Union will also need a valid work permit
- a high degree of responsibility
- committed, reliable and conscientious way of working
- very good ability to work independently and time management
- very good research and analytical skills
- Proficient use of Microsoft programmes Word, Excel and PowerPoint, as well as Skype
- willingness to learn new computer programmes
- very good knowledge of spoken and written German (language level: oral C1, written C2)
- very good knowledge of English is an advantage (confident reading of specialist literature), but not essential
3. Classification of internships:
- Required internships:
these include internships required by the intern’s course of study or training programme. The placement and duration depend upon the requirements of the particular programme. - Voluntary internships accompanying studies or training:
are internships that are carried out in parallel with vocational or higher education but, unlike mandatory internships, are not stipulated in the study or training regulations. The internship usually lasts three months. A different period can be agreed individually. - Voluntary internships for vocational guidance:
are internships that serve as a guide for vocational training or for starting a degree. The internship usually lasts three months. A different period can be agreed individually. - Other internships:
Other internships might be undertaken as part of obtaining a qualification.
4. Tasks/Duties
The intern may be assigned to any and all areas within the Institute. This will include, in particular, participation in on-going or planned research projects. Other tasks may include preparation and assistance at events as well as organisational and administrative activities within the Institute. In addition, the intern might be asked to join in the institute’s training courses.
The final assignment will be tailored to the applicant’s needs and wishes.
5. Internship duration
An internship can be completed for a period of 8 weeks to a maximum of 3 months for voluntary internships and 6 months for required internships.
6. Working hours
The internship can be completed on a full- or part-time basis.
7. Internship location
Germany-wide - it is possible to complete the internship at a location other than the ifb headquarters. The location is individually coordinated with the intern.
8. Compensation and insurance
You will have to cover own your living and accommodation costs. IFB is, unfortunately, unable to provide any financial support.
Please check your health insurance cover with your insurance company before beginning the internship. The institute does not make any social insurance contributions on your behalf.
9. Internship confirmation
A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the internship. Interns will have to create an internship report that will be included in the training certificate. In most cases, the institute will not evaluate the intern’s work, but an evaluation can be created on request. However, the intern does not have a legal right to a formal reference letter from us. Interns must request the certificate at least 3 weeks before the end of the internship.
10. Internship evaluation
All interns are given the opportunity to evaluate their internship after completion.
11. Application process
To apply for an internship, please send the following application materials to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.:
- cover letter (with an outline of your expertise and description of your internship interests, as well as an indication of the placement type sought and period for which the application is being submitted)
- detailed CV (please specify language and computer skills)
- reference letters (if any)
- for mandatory placements, copy of the requirements from your course of study or training programme
- and, a work permit, if required
