The Clean Economy Bridge Research Program

Set-up Notes

We are not accepting applications at this time.
If you believe this is an error, please contact us at research@studentenergy.org.

About the Partners

The Clean Economy Bridge Research Program will support 12 youth leaders (ages 18-30) representing Canada, the United States, and Germany to collaborate on research exploring transatlantic cooperation for a clean economy.


Delivered virtually from May to November 2026, the program provides participants with access to professional mentorship, a structured training curriculum, and opportunities to develop practical research and policy analysis skills. The program is also expected to include an in-person study tour in Berlin, Germany in June 2026.


The program is funded by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN) with funds of the International Climate Initiative (IKI), implemented by the GIZ-programme Climate Diplomacy Action Programme (CDAP) and delivered by Student Energy as part of the Clean Economy Bridge (TBC) initiative. 


About the Partners

Student Energy is a global youth-led organization that empowers the next generation of leaders to accelerate the transition to a sustainable and equitable energy future. Learn more about our programs and impact on our website.


The Clean Economy Bridge (TCB) is an initiative that promotes transatlantic cooperation on clean energy and climate policy between Canada, the United States, and Germany. The TCB Research Program is delivered by Student Energy with support from the TCB office and the GIZ-programme Climate Diplomacy Action Programme (CDAP), which provides strategic guidance, mentorship networks, and connections to key policy and industry stakeholders across the three countries.


The TCB Research Program

Take the time to review each section below carefully to make sure the program is a good fit for you before applying.

 

 📚 Program Benefits

  • Work in a team to produce a research output on the program’s focus areas which will be presented to key stakeholders of the Clean Economy Bridge initiative
  • Receive structured training and regular professional mentorship from experts
  • Participate in an expected in-person study tour in Berlin, which includes participation at the Clean Economy Bridge conference with opportunities to present your work

🌍 Program Focus Areas

The program will focus on the following research themes, while allowing participants flexibility to shape their own research direction:

  • Clean Energy Technologies and Grid Innovation – exploring grid stability, integration of distributed energy sources, and the role of AI in optimizing renewable energy systems
  • Energy and Agriculture – exploring agrivoltaics, energy access in rural areas, and sustainable farming technologies
  • Sustainable Workforce Development - exploring skills development, green jobs pathways, and climate policy cooperation between Canada, the U.S., and Germany
  • Energy Efficiency and Demand-Side Management - exploring strategies to optimize energy use, improve efficiency across sectors, and balance energy demand
  • Climate and Resource Security - exploring migration, food security, and other climate risks in a transatlantic context

Applicants with relevant experience or interest in these areas are especially encouraged to apply and highlight their experiences in the application.

 

 

📅 Schedule

Total time commitment: ~170 hours between May - November 2026 (7 hours/week)

Late May - June 2026: Orientation & Learning Phase

  • Virtual kick-off session, Orientation and Mentor introductions
  • Virtual learning modules & expert-led workshops
  • Research ideation & planning
June 22-26, 2026: Berlin Study Tour & TCB Conference 
  • TCB Annual Conference
  • Site visits, expert sessions and stakeholder meetings
July - September: Research Phase 
  • Conduct collaborative research in teams
  • Receive custom mentorship

August - November: Research Phase

  • Conduct collaborative research in teams
  • Receive custom mentorship

October-November: Wrap-up & Final Outputs

  • Finalize research output
  • Present findings
  • Participate in program reflection
The in-person component is subject to confirmation.
Selected participants will be notified of final details upon acceptance.
 

Application Timeline

📅 APPLICATIONS OPEN: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 

📅 DEADLINE TO APPLY: Sunday, April 26, 2026, 11:59 PM CEST

  • 🇪🇺 CEST (Central European Time) – April 26, 2026 at at 11:59 PM
  • 🇨🇦,🇺🇸 EDT(Eastern Time) – April 26 at 5:59 PM
  • 🇨🇦,🇺🇸 PDT(Pacific Time) – April 26 at 2:59 PM

 

📢 All applicants will hear back by Friday, May 8, 2026.

✅Need help? Use time.is to check local time

✅Questions? Email us at research@studentenergy.org or visit our website.

 

Before You Apply

Eligibility

Applicants should meet the following requirements:
  • ✅Be 18–30 years old as of April 2026
  • ✅Be fluent in English, as the program will be delivered in English
  • ✅Be able to commit ~7 hours per week between May and November 2026.
  • ✅Have reliable access to a computer and an internet connection to participate in virtual sessions
  • ✅Demonstrate a personal or professional connection to one or more of the program’s focus countries: Canada, the United States, or Germany This may include citizenship, residence, education, work experience, or demonstrated interest in energy and climate issues related to these countries, particularly in a transatlantic context. You do not need to currently reside in and/or hold citizenship from one of these countries to apply
  • ✅Have a strong interest or background in climate, energy, international cooperation, or related fields While prior expertise is not required, we are looking for applicants who can demonstrate relevant experience or a clear passion for these areas. Particular consideration will be given to those with interest or experience in the program’s thematic priorities, such as clean energy technologies, AI applications for energy systems, and sustainable agriculture

Application Requirements

Please have the following ready before proceeding:
  • Your resume or curriculum vitae (CV) in PDF, limited to 2 pages long
  • A 2-3 minute unlisted video* uploaded to YouTube of yourself sharing your motivation and the unique perspectives, strengths, and experiences you would bring to the program
  • Answers to the following essay questions (max 250 words each):
    1. Which of the program focus areas most interest you, and what related experiences or perspectives will you bring? 
    2. Briefly describe your experience (if any) in conducting research, policy analysis, and/or working in related clean economy fields. 
    3. What do you hope to gain through your experience in this program, and how does it align with your long-term goals?
*What is an “Unlisted YouTube video”? Unlisted means that only people who know the link to the video can view it; an unlisted video will not appear in any of YouTube’s public spaces.

*If for any reason you are not able to submit a video, you can still apply! The application form provides an opportunity to explain your situation and share relevant details about your background and goals.

Tips for a Successful Application

  1. Bring in your lived experience. What have you learned from your personal journey that gives you a unique perspective? Remember that experiences exist in all shapes and forms, and include much more than your professional background.
  2. Be authentic. Avoid using AI-generated responses-this your chance to show your voice. We are looking for individuals with diverse and nuanced perspectives.
  3. Show your passion. We want to see your genuine interest to grow and contribute to this field, and want this program to catalyze this journey for you.
  4. Take your time. Being thoughtful and authentic is the best strategy.

Notice on the use of AI
Using generative AI may affect the authenticity of your application and will negatively impact your chances of getting accepted.

Acceptance to the Program

Successful candidates will receive an “Offer to Participate” email from research@studentenergy.org. This email will detail next steps to officially register for the program.

By clicking on Begin Application below, you will be asked to provide your email address and complete your profile before proceeding to the submission of your application requirements.