Solvation Scholars Undergraduate Exchange

Connect, learn, and explore Solvation Science through networking, study, and research

We welcome bachelor students to Bochum for this three-component research and training program in Solvation Science.

Participants spend two to three months conducting research within one of RESOLV's research groups in the Ruhr area under supervision of experienced scientists. During their stay, they become part of an international research environment, contributing to ongoing projects while gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge scientific research.


Research opportunities

Visiting students will be integrated into one of RESOLV's working groups and collaborate closely with doctoral and postdoctoral researchers to complete an individual research project. Research topics may include spectroscopy, molecular modeling, kinetics, synthesis, or related areas within Solvation Science.

Previous participants have for example investigated solvent effects in catalytic cross-coupling reactions, electrocatalytic activity, supramolecular assembly design for molecular sensors, and protein phase transitions. Other projects have focused on solvent effects studied with ultrafast laser techniques and FT-IR/THz spectroscopy.

Successful applicants will coordinate with the RESOLV Office to identify and match with an appropriate research group.

RESOLV Research Areas


Academic and scientific training

In addition to their research activities, students can choose to audit selected courses from the curriculum of the international Master Program "Molecular Sciences – Spectroscopy and Simulation" (iMOS) and complete related exercises in consultation with their supervisor. 

Although the Undergraduate Exchange Program is not offered for credit through Ruhr University Bochum, participants may receive a detailed module outline and final project evaluation that can be submitted to their home institution for consideration toward academic credit.

Participants are also encouraged to attend RESOLV colloquia organized by the integrated Graduate School of Solvation Science (iGSS), providing further insight into current developments in the field.

iMOS Curriculum

RESOLV Seminars & Colloquia


Summer School and networking

A key component of the program is the participation in RESOLV's annual Summer School Solvation Science, hosted by iGSS. The Summer School offers valuable opportunities for scientific exchange, interdisciplinary learning, and networking with researchers and fellow students from all over the world.

Summer School Solvation Science


Final presentation

At the end of the program, participants will present the results of their research project to fellow students and members of the RESOLV community, either in person or virtually. This final presentation provides an good opportunity to reflect on their experiences, share scientific findings, and strengthen professional communication skills.

Program information

Subject: Solvation Scholars Undergraduate Exchange
Duration: 2 or 3 months
Credit: request at your home-institution,
14 ECTS equivalent
Location: Bochum, Germany and local Ruhr RESOLV partner institutions
Language: English
Scholarship: a fixed-rate reimbursement for travel and a monthly stipend
Student Status: Bachelor-level Guest-Student eligibility at RUB for a fee
Start: Whitsuns Week Summer School (26. to 29. May 2026) (18. to 21. May 2027) required; in-lab project may fit student's schedule, e.g. May to July or June to August

Currently MSc or PhD student?
Then check our Student Challenge Program instead.

How to apply

The next application period will be 15. November 2026 and 15. January 2027. It is recommended to apply early, as placement may be on a rolling-basis. Please note that this office is closed between 24. December 2026 and 3. January 2027. We will reply as soon as possible in January.

The application should include a

  • CV with contact details and your university affiliation
  • transcript
  • one-page letter of motivation related to solvation science & the research group(s) of interest.

Prerequisites

Bachelor students will have

  • completed at least one full year of subject specific coursework, equivalent to about 46 ETCS / 3rd or 4th year / juniors.
  • some laboratory experience, please include techniques in your CV
  • reviewed the RESOLV research groups & guidelines.

Candidates will be contacted by 18. January and final decisions should be announced before the end of January.

Please note, this program is for students who have NOT begun their Master or Doctoral degree coursework yet. For established collaborations with RESOLV, including MSc and PhD students, please contact us for more information. Some in-lab projects may be scheduled throughout the year.

Downloads

Notes to future Solvation Scholars

What's next?

 

Previous participants' experiences 

Alexander Witt (postdoc at Stanford University):

"Despite sharing many fundamental principles, traditionally Chemistry and Physics classes are normally taught separately. The iMOS program is unique in the way that it brings together students from different fields to learn, and fosters connections between different research areas. This quite unique program prepares students for cutting edge research which is increasing interdisciplinary and sits at the interface between traditional fields."

Benjamin Born (postdoc at Weizmann Institute of Science):

"It is exciting to see a new generation of solvation scientists emerging. The well-established combination of a task-specific lecture series and hands-on research experience in Bochum and in selected labs abroad will be beneficial to the personal and scientific development of students of the iMOS program."