Unique Program with Polytechnic University of Marche in Ancona

Non-EU students


Apply for a visa by November 30 here. Find more information in the FAQ below.

VISA APPLICATION

Application period for all students

Dec 1, 2025 - Feb 20, 2026

Certificate


Research and Innovation in Skin Biology and Anti-Aging Cosmetology

Certificate in “Research and Innovation in Skin Biology and Anti-Aging Cosmetology”

Research & Development is and remains the heart of Beiersdorf. Skin research expertise is firmly anchored in our company DNA. It runs like a red thread through our 140-year history, which is characterized by inventiveness, courage, innovative strength – and collaboration with the brightest minds in their field. We have a close bond of joint scientific research work with the Polytechnic University of Marche (UNIVPM) in Ancona, Italy, for well over ten years. Now we are putting this alliance on a new institutional “footing” – with a program that meaningfully combines academic and application-oriented research. 

With the new professional development program “Research and Innovation in Skin Biology and Anti-Aging Cosmetology”, we combine our own outstanding expertise in skin biology and research as one of the leading innovators in skin care with the knowledge of a leading European university in the Life Sciences field and industrial applications. Together, we build an important bridge between academia and practical research work in the industry. That way, we enable mutual learning and the further development of relevant skills to help you advance your career in skin science. Would you like to expand your scientific knowledge of the complex processes of the skin and contribute to the research and development of effective skin care innovations for global brand icons such as NIVEA, Eucerin, La Prairie, Hansaplast and many more?
Then apply for one of the twelve places on the program and join us in shaping the future of skin care. Applications are accepted until February 20, 2026.

Key Facts at a Glance

    unique dual-approach
    innovative program combining academic excellence with industry-leading expertise in skin science
    12 young researchers
    benefit from expert mentorship from experienced researchers in both academia and the industry
    3-week theory
    at UNIVPM gaining deep theoretical knowledge in skin biology and anti-aging
    3-month lab experience
    participate in Beiersdorf’s research projects for tomorrow’s skin care innovations
    unique dual-approach
    innovative program combining academic excellence with industry-leading expertise in skin science
    12 young researchers
    benefit from expert mentorship from experienced researchers in both academia and the industry
    3-week theory
    at UNIVPM gaining deep theoretical knowledge in skin biology and anti-aging
    3-month lab experience
    participate in Beiersdorf’s research projects for tomorrow’s skin care innovations

    Good to know about the program

    Following a dual-education approach, the course “Research and Innovation in Skin Biology and Anti-Aging Cosmetology” offers a balanced integration of in-depth academic knowledge and hands-on practical experience during a cutting-edge industrial training with one of the leading innovators in skin care. As a program participant, you will benefit from personalized mentoring, direct access to the latest scientific discoveries, and state-of-the-art methodologies. This innovative interdisciplinary approach equips you with comprehensive future-focused expertise as you join Beiersdorf’s scientists to pioneer innovative cosmetic interventions and develop the active ingredients of tomorrow. The program is aimed at ten to twelve young researchers per year.

    Set-Up of the Industrial-Academic Program

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    More Information and the application link will be available December 01, 2025!

     

    • By using this feature, you agree that the data may also be transferred to third countries outside the European Economic Area without an adequate level of data protection (esp. USA). It is possible that authorities may access the data without legal remedies. You can withdraw your consent at any time with future effect. Further info: Privacy Policy

      Dr. Elisabetta Damiani, Associate Professor Lab of Food Biochemistry, Nutrition & Oxidative Stress

      “The theoretical knowledge delivered in the course has been meticulously put together by the University and Beiersdorf. It delivers an invaluable foundation on skin science and anti-aging which can then be put right into practice in the lab of a leader in the industry. A great opportunity for the researchers of tomorrow.”

    • By using this feature, you agree that the data may also be transferred to third countries outside the European Economic Area without an adequate level of data protection (esp. USA). It is possible that authorities may access the data without legal remedies. You can withdraw your consent at any time with future effect. Further info: Privacy Policy

      Dr. Judith Seidel, Senior Scientist Life Science Strategy & Outcubation

      “Participants will get a unique opportunity to apply their advanced academic knowledge to concrete real-life research questions within the field of skin care. Together with Beiersdorf scientists, they will work in our laboratories on innovative approaches in cosmetic skin research and active ingredient discovery.”

    • By using this feature, you agree that the data may also be transferred to third countries outside the European Economic Area without an adequate level of data protection (esp. USA). It is possible that authorities may access the data without legal remedies. You can withdraw your consent at any time with future effect. Further info: Privacy Policy

      Dr. Thomas Blatt, Principal Scientist Skin Biology

      “This program strengthens academic and industrial exchange. It expands access to cutting-edge life science knowledge, fosters mutual learning and upskilling via best practice examples. This marks a significant pillar in building an international scientific learning community.”

    • By using this feature, you agree that the data may also be transferred to third countries outside the European Economic Area without an adequate level of data protection (esp. USA). It is possible that authorities may access the data without legal remedies. You can withdraw your consent at any time with future effect. Further info: Privacy Policy

      Dr. Pegah Rahmati, Research Scientist Life Science Strategy & Outcubation

      “The idea of this unique program makes me wish I were a student again. Running cutting-edge experiments, exploring skin biology, and contributing to the development of potential future products at Beiersdorf - it’s truly inspiring. For me, supporting young scientists on this journey is both rewarding and vital to the future of skincare innovation.”

    • By using this feature, you agree that the data may also be transferred to third countries outside the European Economic Area without an adequate level of data protection (esp. USA). It is possible that authorities may access the data without legal remedies. You can withdraw your consent at any time with future effect. Further info: Privacy Policy

      Patrick Orlando, Researcher, Head of the Laboratory of Biochemistry of Oxidative Stress and Aging

      Bringing together the solid theoretical training of Università Politecnica delle Marche and the innovative research opportunities in the laboratories of Beiersdorf, a global leader in skin care, this program offers young researchers a unique chance to tackle the future challenges of cosmetology and skin aging.

    • By using this feature, you agree that the data may also be transferred to third countries outside the European Economic Area without an adequate level of data protection (esp. USA). It is possible that authorities may access the data without legal remedies. You can withdraw your consent at any time with future effect. Further info: Privacy Policy

      Graduate voices

      Carla and Alida share their experiences and learnings within the program!

      Best of both worlds: Academia and Industry

        Innovation Power
        more than 1,000 scientists innovating at Beiersdorf worldwide of which over 700 in Hamburg
        R&D Investment
        yearly over €200 million invested in Beiersdorf’s research and development activities
        Global Network
        Beiersdorf Innovation Centers with state-of-the-art facilities in Germany, US, China, India, Brazil
        Research Expertise
        approx. 1,500 active patents and over 20 scientific publications p.a.
        Innovation Power
        more than 1,000 scientists innovating at Beiersdorf worldwide of which over 700 in Hamburg
        R&D Investment
        yearly over €200 million invested in Beiersdorf’s research and development activities
        Global Network
        Beiersdorf Innovation Centers with state-of-the-art facilities in Germany, US, China, India, Brazil
        Research Expertise
        approx. 1,500 active patents and over 20 scientific publications p.a.
          Leading University
          UNIVPM is one of Italy's leading universities, > 550 lecturers and researchers
          Dynamic Community
          >17000 students enrolled in medicine, engineering, sciences etc., 200+ international collaborations
          Research Focus
          over 50 research centers and laboratories at Polytechnic University of Marche
          Scientific Partners
          10+ years of joint successful research work between Polytechnic University of Marche and Beiersdorf
          Leading University
          UNIVPM is one of Italy's leading universities, > 550 lecturers and researchers
          Dynamic Community
          >17000 students enrolled in medicine, engineering, sciences etc., 200+ international collaborations
          Research Focus
          over 50 research centers and laboratories at Polytechnic University of Marche
          Scientific Partners
          10+ years of joint successful research work between Polytechnic University of Marche and Beiersdorf

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • The program follows a dual-education approach in skin sciences, combining academic and practical experimental work packages in the industry.

            In a first step, students acquire the latest scientific knowledge as they attend three weeks of theoretical instruction at the Polytechnic University of Marche, covering four modules:

            • skin biology and aging
            • skin redox biochemistry
            • skin senescence and anti-aging,
            • and experimental models/photoprotection/cosmeceutical active ingredient

            Acquired knowledge is assessed through a multiple-choice test.
            This is followed by a small-scale experimental research project conducted over a three-month period in the biological research labs at Beiersdorf’s headquarters in Hamburg. Upon successful completion and a final presentation at the end of the program, a certificate is awarded by the Polytechnic University of Marche.

          • In addition to students from the Polytechnic University of Marche in Ancona (UNIVPM), this program is open to all international students holding a Bachelor’s Degree or Master's students in the fields of Biology, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Technologies and similar fields. Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate from the Polytechnic University of Marche in Ancona.

          • The course will be offered to a maximum of twelve students a year. After the three-week theoretical instruction at UNIVPM, the practical experience in Beiersdorf’s labs will take place in two rounds, each lasting three months with a maximum of 6 students per round.

          • Enrollment for the program is managed directly through the Polytechnic University of Marche in Ancona via their website. The application link will be available here as of December 01, 2025.

          • The course is an optional professional development program within the programs offered by the Faculty of Sciences. It allows students to apply theoretical scientific knowledge in practice and translate their knowledge into collaboration on real research projects. Just like any other applicant to Beiersdorf, participants of this course can apply to Beiersdorf's broad range of career opportunities, including the R&D Management Traineeship, doctoral research positions, or advertised roles as R&D Engineer. 

          • The program incurs a student enrolment fee of 448 Euros (tax included). A financial bursary for food, travel expenses and accommodation may be available. 

          • The professional development program “Research and Innovation in Skin Biology and Anti-Aging Cosmetology” is the first program of its kind that Beiersdorf has launched in collaboration with a university partner in 2025. It is initially planned for a three-year term.

          • Non-EU students must first apply for a visa before they can pre-enroll in a study program in Italy via the Universitaly portal. However, obtaining a visa does not automatically guarantee admission to the desired study program.

            Universitaly – The official portal for pre-enrollment
            Universitaly is the official portal for non-EU students to pre-enroll at Italian universities. Through this portal, the application is completed, the required documents are uploaded, and—after validation by the university—the confirmation can be used to apply for a student visa and to enter Europe.

            Find the link to Universitaly here.

            1. Create an account at the follwing link: https://universitaly-private.cineca.it/index.php/login
            2. Fill-in personal data
            3. At the end of the procedure in the section ”Area Riservata Studente”, Pre-enrolment application has to be selected under the paragraph Extra-EU citizen: Pre-enrolment application for a study VISA for Italy
            4. Select “New Enrolment Application”
            5. Step A: check that personal data is correct
            6. Step B: insert passport, country, embassy and the reason for the visa request and the course chosen. For the course, one has to fill in the following information:
              Institution: Università
              Institution Name: Università Politecnica delle Marche
              Course Type: Corso di Perfezionamento
              Course Name:  Research and Innovation in Skin Biology and Anti-Aging Cosmetology
            7. Step C: upload various documents (CV, degree, transcript of records, Cimea if already in possession of it) 

          Joint research work with Polytechnic University of Marche