As a master’s student in Molecular and Cell Biology at Freie Universität Berlin, I had the opportunity to complete a six-month Erasmus-funded internship at a biotech company in Vienna, Austria. The internship focused on antiviral drug development, directly aligning with my professional aspirations in research and development. This experience provided me with invaluable training, enhanced my scientific skills, and offered a unique perspective on the dynamic environment of the biotech industry.
The application process for the internship was straightforward, as I applied directly to the company that advertised an open vacancy. After two interviews, I was delighted to receive an offer. Although the time between the acceptance and the start date was short, the Erasmus-related paperwork was processed smoothly. Finding accommodation, often a challenge, turned out to be a breeze; I secured a small apartment through Housing Anywhere within 24 hours. Traveling to Vienna was also easy, with convenient train and bus options available. Upon arrival, I felt well-prepared thanks to my supervisor, who provided thorough preparatory material and data beforehand. This made the orientation process seamless, and for the first time in my internship experiences, I didn’t feel lost on the first day.
I was fortunate to work alongside a diverse team of 15 scientists from various professional and cultural backgrounds, which created a collaborative and enriching environment. The internship took place in the Biocenter Vienna, a hub for scientific innovation. This location gave me the opportunity to interact with professionals from both academia and industry, allowing me to build a solid network within the biotech sector.
My work combined molecular techniques, cell culture, and virology assays. The most rewarding aspect was gaining my first insight into product-driven atmosphere of the biotech industry. One of my key achievements was demonstrating that a specific compound had antiviral effects against rhinovirus, paving the way for its potential clinical research application. This work will be published in an upcoming scientific paper, marking my first co-authored publication—an incredible milestone for my career.
The internship greatly expanded my technical and soft skills. On the technical side, I mastered techniques like TCID50 assays, primary cell culture of airway epithelial models, and cytotoxicity assessments of compounds. Additionally, I improved my ability to adapt quickly to new protocols and manage complex experiments. On the soft skills front, I enhanced my communication and teamwork abilities by working closely with a multidisciplinary team, learned to manage time effectively under tight deadlines, and gained confidence in presenting findings to an expert audience.
This internship significantly influenced my career trajectory. It reinforced my passion for research and strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in the biotech industry. The professional connections I gained will undoubtedly serve as a solid reference for future roles in research and development. One of the key takeaways was understanding the importance of adaptability and the value of interdisciplinary collaboration to solve complex scientific challenges.
My Erasmus internship in Vienna was an invaluable experience that provided both professional and personal growth. I am incredibly grateful to the Erasmus program for making this opportunity possible. I encourage other students to explore similar opportunities, as they offer a chance to gain practical experience, expand networks, and get out of our comfort zone.
Tips for other Interns
Preparation
Make sure to find an accommodation and choose the right district carefully.
Visa Application
For EU citizens, a residency permit is not required for an internship in Austria. However, for non-EU citizens, I recommend checking first with MA-35 as early as possible, because in my case I was asked to issue one. Ensure you have all the required documents, including the Erasmus paperwork and the internship acceptance letter.
Search for an Internship
Look for opportunities on specialized platforms such as Indeed, LinkedIn, or directly on company websites. Tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific internship, and don’t hesitate to send speculative applications to companies in your field of interest.
Search for an Apartment
Housing Anywhere proved to be an excellent platform for finding short-term rentals in Vienna. Start looking as soon as you get your internship confirmation, as affordable and well-located options can be competitive. Joining Facebook groups for expats in Vienna can also provide leads for sublets or shared housing.
Insurance
Ensure you have proper health insurance coverage for Austria. I would recommend the DAAD insurance in addition to the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Other
Pack appropriately for Vienna’s weather, particularly if your internship spans winter months. Familiarize yourself with basic austrian phrases, as they can be helpful in daily interactions.
Formalities on Site
Telefon-/Internet
The german SIM card works totally fine here.
Bank/Account opening
You dont need it if you already have a german bank account
Other
Registering your residence (Meldezettel) is mandatory in Austria and should be done within three days of arrival. Your landlord will usually provide the necessary documents for this process
Everyday/Leisure
Going-out Activities
Vienna offers a vibrant cultural scene, including museums, opera houses, and theaters. The city’s student discounts make exploring these affordable. For nightlife, head to the Gürtel area. If you enjoy outdoor activities, the Danube Island and Schönbrunn Palace gardens are great for a relaxing day.
Other
Try local specialties like Wiener Schnitzel or Sachertorte, and explore Vienna’s famous coffee houses. Demmel sells the best Kaiserschmarrn