The Merck Innovation Cup Summer Camp 2025 in Germany is now open for applications. This fully funded competition invites international students to a unique learning experience in areas such as Oncology, Neuroscience & Immunology, Drug Discovery, Green Chemistry, Digital Health, Smart Manufacturing, and Neuroinspired AI Inference Acceleration.

A total of 42 international students will be selected to participate in this camp, scheduled from July 19 to 25, 2025, near Frankfurt, Germany. The program provides an excellent platform to connect with professionals, network, and create innovative business ideas. All travel, accommodation, and food expenses will be covered by Merck. Notably, no IELTS certification is required to apply.

Benefits of the Program:

  • Round-trip airfare
  • Free accommodation in Frankfurt
  • Complimentary meals
  • Cash prizes:
    • €20,000 for the winning team
    • €5,000 for the runner-up team
    • €3,000 for the team in third place
  • Opportunities for top-performing participants to receive permanent job offers from Merck.

Features of Merck Innovation

Selected participants will engage in a week-long summer camp, collaborating in a dynamic and innovative environment. The program offers the following opportunities:

  • Teamwork to generate groundbreaking ideas in Oncology, Neuroscience & Immunology, Drug Discovery, Green Chemistry, Digital Health, Smart Manufacturing, and Neuroinspired AI Inference Acceleration.
  • Development of comprehensive business plans.
  • Insights into pharmaceutical R&D.
  • Networking with the brightest students from around the globe.
  • Exploration of career opportunities at Merck.

Eligibility for Merck Innovation Cup Summer Camp 2025

  • Global Applicants: Open to candidates from all over the world.
  • Postgraduate Students: PhD candidates in life sciences fields such as Biology, Medicine, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Data Science, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, and related disciplines.
  • Postdoctoral Researchers & MBA Graduates: Postdocs and recent or advanced MBA graduates with a background in life sciences and an interest in the pharmaceutical industry are eligible to apply.
  • Master’s Students, PhD Candidates, and Young Professionals: These groups are encouraged to apply.
  • Exclusions: This program is not open to healthcare professionals.