AN OPEN CALL FOR MASTER’S STUDENTS
01 / OVERVIEW
The Challenge
The AMITY challenge is a challenge-based educational programme in environmental biotechnology. Framed as a Blended Intensive Program (BIP), students work with universities, companies and public-sector stakeholders on scientifically sound solutions centred on microbial technologies and a sustainable circular economy.
Teams work on real-world environmental problems and investigate a biotechnological response through scientific and engineering methods. Take a look to an example!
The program connects mentors and relevant stakeholders with interdisciplinary student groups.
The work culminates in the AMITY Summit, where their solutions are shaped by research, feasibility and impact.
02 / PROCESS
How does it work?
1. Express your interest!
Complete the AMITY interest form to let us know you would like to participate.
2. Selection and registration — November & December 2026
Participating universities select their students. Students from ENLIGHT universities must also follow their home university's official application procedure by November 15.
3. Meet your team — January 2027
Get to know your mentors and fellow team members, and prepare for the challenge.
4. Take on the challenge — February -> June 2027
Attend webinars, work with your team, and develop a solution to a real-world environmental biotechnology challenge.
5. AMITY Summit — July 12–16, 2027
Meet the other teams in Ghent and pitch your solution to an expert jury.
03 / PARTICIPATION
Who can apply?
The program is aimed at Master’s students from AMITY universities that will work in small, interdisciplinary groups.
Partner Universities
Ghent University
University of Galway
University of Tartu
University of the Basque Country
University of Groningen
Delft University of Technology
Tubingen University
University of Santiago de Compostela
University of Eastern Finland
Wageningen University & Research
04 / OPPORTUNITY
What is the AMITY experience?
Work on a real environmental biotechnology challenge.
Collaborate in an international, interdisciplinary team.
Receive mentoring from researchers and external experts.
Engage with stakeholder perspectives.
Develop scientific, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Present your solution during the final week in Ghent.
05 / KEY DATES
Timeline
October
Show your interest!
Nov-Dec
Selection and registration
January
Meet your team
January
Choose your challenge
Feb–Jun
Develop a solution
Feb–Jun
Follow webinars
12–16 Jul 2027