The START Programme at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) offers students from around the world the opportunity to work on advanced scientific and engineering projects under the supervision of experienced JINR researchers in Dubna, Russia.

The JINR START Programme is an onsite research training programme designed for talented students who want to gain practical research experience, develop technical skills, and explore future careers in science and technology.

About the JINR START Programme

START, formerly known as the JINR Summer Student Programme, provides an opportunity for students to work directly with JINR experts on real research and engineering tasks.

Participants normally spend 6–8 weeks in Dubna, working on an advanced-level research project under the guidance of a JINR supervisor. At the end of the programme, participants prepare a written report describing their research work.

The programme welcomes students from different countries and provides exposure to an international scientific research environment.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is intended for students who:

• Are under 30 years old
• Are currently studying in a relevant field
• Have completed at least the third year of a Bachelor’s/Specialist programme
• Are Master’s students or first-year PhD students
• Specialise in science, engineering, or IT
• Have not previously participated in the JINR START/Summer Student Programme

Applicants must be able to provide proof of their current student status. Applications and supporting documents must follow the requirements specified by JINR.

Research Areas

The START Programme covers a wide range of scientific and technical fields, including:

• Theoretical Physics
• Elementary Particle Physics
• Relativistic Nuclear Physics
• Nuclear Physics
• Engineering and Instrumentation
• Information Technology and computational research
• Materials and related scientific fields

Projects are connected with JINR’s laboratories and ongoing research activities.

What Does the Programme Offer?

Selected participants receive the opportunity to:

• Work on a real research project
• Receive guidance from a JINR scientific expert
• Gain practical experience at JINR facilities
• Develop research and technical skills
• Work in an international scientific environment
• Build connections with researchers and students from different countries
• Explore potential topics for a future thesis
• Identify possible scientific supervisors
• Improve their prospects for a future scientific career at JINR

JINR describes the programme as a way for young researchers to gain practical experience and potentially develop a future career within the institute.

Is the JINR START Programme Fully Funded?

Yes, the official START programme information lists substantial financial support for selected participants.

According to JINR, participants are provided with free accommodation in a JINR hostel and receive a daily allowance of 2,000 Russian rubles per day. JINR also states that transport, visa, and insurance costs are reimbursed.

For international participants, travel arrangements can vary by country. JINR states that travel tickets may be arranged or travel expenses reimbursed when the required documentation is provided.

Therefore, the programme can be described as a fully funded research training opportunity, subject to the programme’s applicable financial and administrative conditions.

Documents Required

Applicants should be prepared to provide documents such as:

• Graduation certificate or academic record/transcript
• Proof of current student status
• Updated CV
• Recommendation letter
• Motivation letter
• Information about previous research activities, theses or publications

Applicants should carefully follow the document requirements for their particular session.

How to Apply for the JINR START Programme?

The application process generally involves the following steps:

Step 1: Register as a student on the official START website.

Step 2: Complete your profile and upload the required documents.

Step 3: Select an available START session.

Step 4: Submit your application for the relevant session.

Step 5: Wait for the preselection and final selection results.

Applicants are advised to regularly check their email and START profile for updates and instructions from the programme team.

Why Apply?

The JINR START Programme is particularly valuable for students who want to move beyond classroom learning and experience how scientific research is conducted in an international research institution.

Participants can gain hands-on research experience, work with experienced scientists, develop their technical abilities, and potentially identify future research or thesis opportunities.

For students planning careers in physics, nuclear science, engineering, computing, or related fields, the programme can be a valuable addition to their academic and professional profile.