Summer school 2026 - European Chips Skills Academy

ECS Summer School

WHEN: August 23th – August 28th, 2026

WHERE: University Residential Centre, University of Bologna, Bertinoro, Italy

Microelectronics is a wide technological sector for the development of Integrated Circuits (Chips!). Chips need to be designed, fabricated, tested and assembled. They can be further combined in electronic systems, which shall be powered and animated with the soul of software. The ability of these systems to manage or exchange information with their environment sustains the interaction between the physical and digital worlds, bringing smartness all around.

In recent years this sector has experienced incredible progress. This is the result of improved microelectronics and integration technologies that open the possibility to increase present applications and to create new ones, as well. Microelectronics provides miniaturization and production in high numbers, so electronic systems can be deployed in multiple scenarios, from inside our bodies to outer space. Some cases are related to telecom (with better communication systems), to automotive (with electric cars and autonomous driving), or to biomedical devices (supporting human weaknesses, allowing minimally invasive surgery, and more generally improving prevention and diagnosis).

Via lectures, demonstrations and interactive activities, the program will introduce some of the possibilities offered by present microelectronics devices and foreseen future applications, showing the many facets of the fascinating world of microelectronics.

The program will cover four main topics:

Semiconductor technology
Integrated Circuits design
Digital systems and Embedded Intelligence
Integration

Talks will be delivered by representatives from leading universities, research institutes and companies. Career testimonies by young engineers will complete the week.

Applications for the 2026 edition are now closed.

Eligibility criteria: This Summer School is dedicated to undergraduate students who, by the time of the summer school, will have completed at least two years of university study and will have at least one year to go before completing their undergraduate studies. Students from all fields of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in a university based in the EU or associated country are eligible to apply. A good knowledge of English is mandatory since all interaction will be held in that language.

Selection will be based on the applicant’s CV, a motivation letter, up to three recommendation letters, and academic transcripts. It will take into account gender and geographical balance to ensure a diversity of student backgrounds.

Cost: Free of charge. Accommodation and meals are provided. Please note that travel costs are not reimbursed.