JINR START Programme 2026 | Advanced Research Training for Science Students

The START (STudent Advanced Research Training) programme at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) is an international, fully funded student research internship designed for young scientists and engineers from around the world. It offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in real scientific and engineering research alongside top experts in a prestigious international laboratory based in Dubna, Russia.

What Is the START Programme?

START is an onsite research training programme developed for students and early postgraduate researchers in science, engineering, and IT. It was previously known as the Summer Student Programme and has been running successfully for many years, welcoming participants from dozens of countries.

Participants work on advanced-level scientific projects under the guidance of experienced JINR scientists and engineers. The programme helps students develop practical research skills, tackle real scientific challenges, and prepare for future academic or professional careers.

Who Can Apply

The START Programme is aimed at:

• Students who have completed at least the 3rd year of a Bachelor’s degree
• Master’s students
• First-year PhD students
• Applicants must generally be under 30 years old and have a strong academic background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

The programme is open to students from all nationalities, making it a truly global research experience.

Programme Structure & Duration

START runs in two sessions each year:

• Winter Session: Typically from February to June
• Summer Session: Typically from July to November

Each session lasts about 6–8 weeks, during which participants live in Dubna and conduct research projects agreed with their project supervisors.

Selected students work within JINR’s laboratories, contribute to ongoing research, and produce a written report on their work at the end of the programme.

What You’ll Do & Gain

During the START Programme, students:

• Work on real scientific and engineering tasks under expert supervision
• Gain practical laboratory and computational skills
• Collaborate with researchers from around the world
• Enhance their resumes and research portfolios
• Find potential supervisors for future BSc, MSc, or PhD theses
• Build professional networks with scientists and peers at a major research institute

This experience often helps participants decide their future research focus and strengthens their qualifications for scientific careers.

Financial Support & Benefits

The programme offers strong financial support to ensure students can fully focus on research:

• Free accommodation in JINR hostels
• Daily allowance to cover living costs
• Reimbursement for transport, visa, and insurance expenses

This support makes START an attractive option for students seeking international research exposure without major financial barriers.

Application & Selection

Applications for the Summer Session 2026 were accepted from February 1 to March 2, 2026, with successful applicants expected to come to Dubna for 6–8 weeks between July and November 2026.

Selection is carried out by project supervisors based on submitted applications and academic credentials. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further clarification before final selection.

Why It Matters

The START Programme is more than an internship — it is a springboard for budding scientists who want to transition from coursework to real scientific inquiry. It not only provides research exposure and technical training but also fosters global collaboration, intercultural exchange, and professional growth in cutting-edge science and technology.