The i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Programme in Interdisciplinarity in Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion is a highly selective two-year joint master’s degree designed to prepare the next generation of professionals and researchers to tackle the urgent scientific and technological challenges in energy storage and conversion. Grounded in rigorous interdisciplinary training that spans materials science, electrochemistry, chemistry and applied technologies, the programme equips students with both in-depth scientific knowledge and practical research skills through mobility across multiple countries.
Launched as part of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees and co-funded by the European Union from 2023 to 2029, i-MESC is a continuation of a long-standing tradition of excellence in the Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion field. The programme’s integrated curriculum emphasises batteries, fuel cells and supercapacitors while fostering transferable skills such as project management, communication, ethics, intellectual property, and entrepreneurship. Graduates of the i-MESC programme are uniquely positioned for careers in high-level research, industrial innovation, and doctoral studies worldwide.
Key Details of the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Erasmus Mundus Master in Interdisciplinarity in Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Warsaw University of Technology & Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier, Year 2 at a selected partner university for specialisation/research |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding (EMJM Scholarships) |
| Academic Focus | Electrochemical energy storage and conversion, materials science, batteries, fuel cells, supercaps, advanced characterisation, AI applications |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2023 |
| End Date | 31 October 2029 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in i-MESC Erasmus Mundus
The programme is jointly delivered by a consortium of international universities:
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Warsaw University of Technology | Poland |
| Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier | France |
| Universidad del País Vasco / Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea | Spain |
| Univerza v Ljubljani – University of Ljubljana | Slovenia |
| Drexel University | USA |
| Deakin University | Australia |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Poland (Warsaw) & France (Toulouse) | Core modules in fundamentals of electrochemistry, materials science, physical chemistry and value chain technologies (classes + labs) |
| Year 2 | Spain (Bilbao), Slovenia (Ljubljana) or France (Amiens) + Research Organisation | Advanced applied modules in materials and device technologies; Master’s thesis research (30 ECTS) in Europe, USA, or Australia |
| Optional Mobility | Research stays and internships across consortium partners and industry labs | Integration of soft skills and professional modules (project management, communication) |
Research and Industry Links
The i-MESC Erasmus Mundus programme maintains strong ties with top research institutes and industry partners. Students can conduct their Master’s thesis research within participating organisations including universities, European research centres such as ALISTORE-ERI, CIC EnergiGUNE, and National Institute of Chemistry, or leading companies in energy storage and conversion technologies like Bosch, Umicore, Renault, TOTAL, E4V, Saft and Solvay. These collaborations enrich the academic experience with real-world applications and potential career pathways.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 180 ECTS) completed or in final year with certificate of enrolment.
- Relevant academic background in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Electrochemistry, or compatible disciplines.
- Demonstrated academic excellence and motivation for interdisciplinary energy research.
- English language proficiency through accepted tests (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) as outlined by the programme application guidelines.
- Complete and timely submission of all application documents before the deadline.
equired Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official transcripts.
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English.
- Letter of motivation explaining research interests.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Passport identification page.
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official i-MESC Erasmus Mundus website and access the application portal.
- Complete personal, academic, and mobility preference sections.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Submit referee contact details for recommendation letters.
- Review your application before final submission.
- Submit your application before the published deadline.
- If shortlisted, prepare for possible interviews focused on research motivation and academic interests.
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | December |
| Application Deadline | Febuary |
| Selection and Review | March |
| Final Results Notification | April |
| Programme Start | September |
Scholarship Benefits for i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Erasmus+ Joint Master (EMJM) scholarships covering tuition and participation costs.
- Monthly subsistence allowance for the full 24-month programme.
- Support for travel, visa, and installation costs.
- Additional industrial scholarships from partner institutions and industry sponsors.
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate your motivation for interdisciplinary research in energy storage and conversion.
- Highlight relevant academic projects, lab experience, or technical skills.
- Provide professional and academic references with strong endorsements.
- Tailor your CV to emphasise research experience and international readiness.
- Prepare for interviews with concrete academic and research goals.
Alumni Experience
Graduates of the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus programme often emphasise the depth of interdisciplinary training and the career-boosting impact of international mobility. Alumni progress into research and development roles within leading energy storage and conversion companies, doctoral programmes, and advanced industrial laboratories, benefiting from the strong networks and practical skills acquired through the programme’s consortium and industry links.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program and who is it for?
The i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program is a fully funded, two-year master’s degree focused on materials for energy storage and conversion. It is designed for students with backgrounds in chemistry, materials science, physics, or related fields who are interested in sustainable energy technologies.
Which universities are part of the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program?
The i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program is jointly offered by four core universities: Université de Picardie Jules Verne (France), University of Ljubljana (Slovenia), Warsaw University of Technology (Poland), and University of the Basque Country (Spain).
Is there a scholarship available for the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program?
Yes, the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program offers fully funded scholarships for selected students, which cover tuition fees, travel expenses, installation costs, and a monthly stipend.
What kind of career opportunities are available after completing the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program are well-prepared for PhD studies, research positions, and roles in energy-related industries such as battery development, sustainable materials, and green technologies.
Can I apply to the i-MESC Erasmus Mundus Program without an English test?
Native English speakers or those who studied in English can submit a declaration instead of a test. All others need IELTS ≥6.5, TOEFL ≥87 iBT, Cambridge B2, or CEFR B2
