Second call for WISE Research Master's Thesis 2026-2027

The WISE Research Master’s Thesis is a research-preparatory initiative for master’s students who are interested in pursuing doctoral studies in materials science for sustainability. Students are also expected to participate in selected research-related activities and may be offered advanced courses that can be credited toward future doctoral studies.

In this year's second call for applications, up to four scholarships of 75,000 SEK will be awarded within the program during 2026-2027, and a further 12 during 2027–2028. The stipend amount is paid in two instalments – when approximately 30% of the thesis has been completed (25,000 SEK) and upon submission of the final thesis report (50,000 SEK). The assessment of whether 30% of the work has been completed may be carried out by the evaluation committee, subject to a certificate from the supervisor.

Who can apply?

Master’s students in natural sciences or engineering who are interested in sustainable materials and research, and who plan to carry out a master’s thesis (at least 30 ECTS credits) at Stockholm University during 2026 and/or 2027, and who have completed 45 ECTS credits within their respective master’s programmes by 31 October 2026.

Applicants should be in the second year of one of the following master’s programmes:

• Master's Programme in Analytical Chemistry
  
• Master's Program in Organic Chemistry
  
• Master's Programme in Sustainable Chemistry
  
• Master's Programme in Physics
  
• Master's Programme in Theoretical Physics
  
• Master's Programmes in Environmental Science

Students are encouraged to contact the Directors of studies at the Department of Chemistry, Department of Physics or Department of Environmental Science for information about potential supervisors.

Project requirement

The Master’s degree project should be linked to the WISE research matrix, see the Figure below (click to zoom).

How to apply

Submit the application to WISE_RMT.chemistry@su.se no later than October 31 2026, including the following:

• An application letter presenting yourself and motivating your interests in materials science for sustainability.
• A short description of the Master's thesis project (max 1 page), signed by the intended supervisor and the applicant.
• The latest master course transcript from LADOK.

Evaluation criteria and evaluation committee

Applications will be evaluated based on two main criteria:

1. Qualification of the student – course records and motivation (ranking)
2. Project relevance to the WISE research matrix (yes/no)

Committee members will be selected among the Directors of master's studies at the Department of Physics and Chemistry , teachers responsible for the related master's programs, as well as WISE URG members Lennart Bergström and Xiaodong Zou.

Contact

For questions, please contact the designated WISE representative at Stockholm University Xiaodong Zou and Lennart Bergström, via WISE_RMT.chemistry@su.se

See also WISE Research Master's Thesis - WISE

WISE Research Master's Thesis flyerpdf, 558.8 kB. (PDF)