To address the shortage of skilled labor in STEM (in German: MINT, i.e. mathematics, informatics, natural sciences, and technology), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) initiated the MINTernship program. As part of this program, KIT students can pursue research stays at selected partner universities and globally recognized research institutions in Europe and the United States. The aim of the program is to establish research exchange opportunities in English-speaking countries attractive for junior scientists. KIT students doing research at the partner universities are exempt from tuition fees. Their research stays are financed through grants.

Overview

University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is North Carolina's urban research university. Located in the largest city of the state, the university is the ideal location for internationally competitive study and research programs. In addition, UNCC is particularly committed to the cultural, economic, educational, environmental, health, and social needs of the greater Charlotte area.

Energy Production and Infrastructure Center, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA

With over 75 faculty members working in energy-related disciplines, EPIC is quickly becoming a national leader in energy research and development. Offering seven Applied Research Clusters, EPIC interdisciplinary researchers collaborate with industry and use state-of-the-art laboratories to solve some of today’s most difficult challenges in the energy sector.

Research Projects

Every year, KIT students get the chance to take part in a research exchange with the Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC) of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). The research projects are very diverse, but always cover areas of energy research. The program is aimed at students in the following degree programs with a focus on energy research: mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, economics enineering, energy, electrical or information technology, civil engineering, biological or chemical engineering and process engineering. It is also possible to write a thesis with the MINTernship program. Please indicate this in your application and consult your supervisors at KIT and UNCC prior to your mobility. The MINTernship is usually recognized as compulsory internship (exept for the mechanical engineering department). Please confirm with your examination office in advance of the mobility.

Application Process

The MINTernship program is sponsored by the following organizations: