Fusion Academy
In March 2026, the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) will launch its very first Fusion Academy – a weeklong spring school designed for students from relevant STEM disciplines. The program offers an in-depth look at fusion research, insights from industry, and unique opportunities to connect with leading experts and innovators.
📅 Dates: 22nd -27th March 2026
📍 Location: Garching (hosted by BMFTR in cooperation with the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics)
💰 Fee: Participation is free of charge, most meals and housing will be provided. Travel costs will be reimbursed.
📅 Dates: 22nd -27th March 2026
📍 Location: Garching (hosted by BMFTR in cooperation with the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics)
💰 Fee: Participation is free of charge, most meals and housing will be provided. Travel costs will be reimbursed.
📝 Application deadline: 2 November 2025
What to expect
The race to achieve the first fusion power plant is one of the greatest scientific and engineering challenges of our time – and one of the most important for a sustainable future. As ambitions grow worldwide, so does the need to inspire and support the next generation of experts.
As an initiative of the BMFTR, the Fusion Academy is designed to do exactly that. Over the course of the week in 2026, participants will:
As an initiative of the BMFTR, the Fusion Academy is designed to do exactly that. Over the course of the week in 2026, participants will:
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Gain basic and deeper knowledge of fusion technologies and approaches to a fusion power plant (esp. magnetic confinement and inertial fusion).
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Experience lab tours, excursions to leading institutes and companies, and a visit to the ASDEX Upgrade research reactor.
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Engage in lectures, talks, and discussions with leading scientists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
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Build lasting networks with peers, start-ups, and institutions shaping the future of fusion.
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Explore career opportunities and get practical insights into the everyday work of the fusion community.
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Take part in interactive workshops and social events.
Fusion power has the potential to provide safe, carbon-free, and virtually limitless energy. The Fusion Academy 2026 is more than a spring school – it’s an opportunity to become part of a global effort to make fusion a reality.
The Fusion Academy is open to STEM students enrolled at German universities or colleges who have completed at least their 4th Bachelor semester or are currently pursuing a Master’s degree. Eligible disciplines include (but are not limited to):
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Physics
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Mechanical Engineering
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Materials Science
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Energy Engineering/Science
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Plant Engineering
A solid foundation in natural sciences is required. The language of the event is English.
Submit your application by 2 November 2025 to:
📧 pt-fusionsforschung@vdi.de
Your application must include:
📧 pt-fusionsforschung@vdi.de
Your application must include:
Registration form (➡ Download here)
Letter of motivation
Curriculum Vitae
Current transcript of records
If you have already finished you Bachelor's degree, we highly recommend submitting your Bachelor’s certificate (including grades).
Once your application has been received, you will get a manual confirmation email from our team.
This process may take up to 48 hours, and a little longer on weekends. If you do not hear back from us, please contact Nina. Otherwise, we cannot process your application.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome by mid-December 2025. In total, 30 spots will be available.
This process may take up to 48 hours, and a little longer on weekends. If you do not hear back from us, please contact Nina. Otherwise, we cannot process your application.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome by mid-December 2025. In total, 30 spots will be available.
For questions, please reach out to Nina Pawlik:
Nina Pawlik
✉ pawlik@vdi.de
☎ +49 211 6214-529
✉ pawlik@vdi.de
☎ +49 211 6214-529