Applications call for EPFL School of Life Sciences Summer Research Program.The program offers international bachelor students eight weeks of lab-immersion during the summer. Join one of our research groups and experience what it means to be part of the thriving science community in Switzerland. Open to students in biology, biophysics, chemistry, bioengineering, bioinformatics, quantitative biology and related fields.

Program Features 

• 25 participants each summer
• 8 weeks of lab experience
• Mentoring by faculty and scientific staff
• Access to scientific seminars
• Science-related Friday afternoon workshops
• Closing symposium with poster sessions from all participants
• A rich program of social activities, including a day hike to the Swiss alps with raclette, BBQ at professors home, and an excursion to the CERN

Scientific Goals and Benefits

The participating students in EPFL School of Life Sciences Summer Research Program will

• Join on-going research in a lab of the EPFL School of Life Sciences.
• Learn new techniques while studying a research topic related to current health issues.
• Improve critical thinking and experimental design.
• Prepare for future independent research as a graduate student.
• Experience the excitement and challenges of scientific research gaining insight into what a research career entails.

Stipend, Housing, and Travel Costs

• Each student receives CHF 3,200 for the two-month period which covers housing and living costs.
• Housing is reserved and paid for out of the stipends beforehand.
• Students are housed together either in Lausanne or Geneva depending on lab assignment.
• Students have either single rooms or double rooms and share kitchen and bathroom facilities with their fellow SRP participants.
• The majority of travel costs to and from Switzerland is covered. The program reimburses up to CHF 1,000 for overseas flights and CHF 500 for shorter distances.

Eligibility

In order to attend the EPFL School of Life Sciences Summer Research Program, students must

• Have enrollment in a university in biology, bio-physics, chemistry, bio-engineering, bio-informatics, quantitative biology, genetics courses or a similar life sciences program.
• Hold a minimum of GPA equivalent to a 3.75/4.0 grade or higher.
• Have completed at least two years of undergraduate work up to the first year of a master’s degree.
• Show a strong interest in pursuing a career in life sciences.

Selection Criteria and Application

• Your CV (1-2 pages).
• Your motivation letter (maximum 750 words).
• The explanation of lab choices (2-3 sentences per lab).
• University transcript or school official list of classes and grades.
• Two letters of recommendation.
• Basic life sciences background is essential; previous lab experience is a plus.

Online Application