The CERN openlab Summer Student Programme is one of the most prestigious computing internships in the world. It is a nine-week hands-on programme held at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) in Switzerland, where the World Wide Web was invented and where the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) operates.
Unlike general summer schools, this programme specifically targets students with a strong profile in Computer Science, IT, and Engineering. You will work on cutting-edge projects—often involving AI, High-Performance Computing (HPC), or Big Data—that directly support CERN’s massive scientific experiments.
Detailed Role & Program Structure
As a CERN openlab student, you will be fully immersed in the scientific community. Your summer will consist of three main pillars:
1. Technical Project
You will join a multicultural team to work on a specific technical project. Topics often include:
- Data Analytics & AI: Developing machine learning models for particle physics.
- High-Performance Computing: Optimizing code for supercomputers.
- Software Engineering: Building tools to manage the massive amount of data CERN produces.
2. Lecture Series
You will attend a dedicated series of lectures given by world-renowned experts. These cover advanced computing technologies, data management, and the physics behind CERN's experiments.
3. Visits & Networking
You will get exclusive access to CERN’s facilities, including underground visits to the accelerators (when possible) and experimental areas. You will also present your work in a final report and presentation.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
CERN is looking for students with a strong computing profile. Please read these criteria carefully:
1. Academic Status
- Degree Level: Must be a Bachelor's or Master's student. (PhD students are NOT eligible).
- Progress: You must have completed at least 6 semesters (3 years) of full-time university studies by June 2026.
- Enrollment: You must remain a registered student during your stay at CERN.
2. Background & Nationality
- Fields: Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, or related disciplines.
- Nationality: The programme is open to students of ALL nationalities globally.
- Experience: You must not have worked at CERN for more than 3 months previously.
Benefits & Compensation (Fully Funded)
This is a fully funded opportunity designed to cover all your living costs in Switzerland.
- Subsistence Allowance: You will receive 93 CHF per day (tax-free). This amounts to roughly 2,700+ CHF per month, which is sufficient to cover housing and food in Geneva.
- Travel Grant: Reimbursement for travel expenses to and from Geneva (lump sum paid at the end).
- Health Insurance: Full coverage under CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme.
- Housing Assistance: Support in finding accommodation on or near the CERN site.
Key Dates & Logistics
- Start Dates: You must be available to start on either June 22 or June 29, 2026.
- Duration: 9 weeks (2 months).
- Work Mode: Fully onsite (40 hours per week).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can PhD students apply?
A: No. This specific programme is strictly for Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
Q: Do I need to be a European citizen?
A: No. Students from any country can apply.
Q: Is an IELTS/TOEFL score required?
A: Official test scores are usually not mandatory, but you must have a "good knowledge of English" to function in the international environment.
How to Apply
You must upload your CV, recent academic transcript, and a reference letter (all in PDF format) to the CERN portal. Do not wait until the last minute.