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The University of West Bohemia in Pilsen (UWB) is offering secondary school students a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into top-tier research. During the summer holidays, students will join scientific teams for 10 days and work on real-world projects. This year's Summer of Science at UWB offers sixteen research topics covering a wide range of fields – from electron microscopy to the development of modern flow batteries. Participants will gain hands-on experience and, thanks to a partnership with the GoHigher Café platform, will also have the opportunity to present their own findings. In addition, they will receive a gross hourly financial reward of CZK 140.

For the very first time this year, internships will take place not only at the NTC research center but also at other technical facilities, namely the Faculty of Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Paid internships are part of a broader system for working with talented students that UWB has been developing in the long term. This also includes projects such as University Student for a Trial Period or the option of extraordinary studies with credit recognition. "I would like this tradition under the UWB lead to continue and develop further. Our goal for the coming years is to expand internship opportunities to humanities faculties as well. We believe that it is precisely the interdisciplinary meeting of students during final presentations that will bring new impulses to everyone involved," said Jiří Kohout, UWB Vice-Rector for Educational Planning and Student Affairs. 

The concept of paid summer internships for high school students has deep roots at the university in Pilsen. The NTC research institute offered the first placements of this type as early as 2008 and 2009. At that time, a unique methodology was developed that linked science with sociological research. The aim was to verify how active involvement in research influences students' decisions regarding future STEM studies. The results confirmed that real-world laboratory work under mentor guidance effectively motivates students toward a scientific career and an interest in technical fields. "We also worked with sociologists to create a system that makes sense and has an impact on the choice of university study topics. I have noticed that this activity is now offered by other centers in the Czech Republic, which pleases us," said Miroslav Holeček, founder of the paid internship program and NTC Deputy Director for Development.

The supply of such positions at UWB is gradually growing. While eight students participated in 2024, there were fourteen last year, and this year, thanks to the support of the Pilsen Region, the organizers have opened sixteen places.

Secondary school students can send their motivation letters, up to a maximum of one A4 page, by 24 May to the email address: bcechuro@ntc.zcu.cz. The letter must state the choice of a specific topic from the table below, the justification for their interest, and the period during which the applicant will be available. Furthermore, it is necessary to mention previous activities such as projects, Olympiads, and studies.