YBB – Are you an undergraduate student interested in gaining international research experience in the life sciences? The EPFL Summer Research Programme 2027 in Switzerland is now accepting applications from talented students around the world.
Organized by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), the programme offers an eight-week research experience at its School of Life Sciences. Participants will work under the guidance of EPFL researchers and faculty members while gaining practical laboratory experience.
The programme will take place from July 5 to August 27, 2027, in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is fully funded and does not charge an application fee. IELTS is also not required.
Programme Overview
- Host Institution: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
- Host School: School of Life Sciences
- Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
- Eligible Applicants: International students
- Programme Duration: 8 weeks
- Programme Dates: July 5–August 27, 2027
- Funding: Fully funded
- Application Fee: None
- Application Deadline: November 15, 2026
What Is the EPFL Summer Research Programme?
The EPFL Summer Research Programme is an international research initiative designed to introduce students to scientific research at the School of Life Sciences.
During the eight-week programme, participants will gain hands-on laboratory experience and learn about research methods in their chosen fields. They will also have opportunities to attend scientific seminars and participate in personal development workshops and social activities.
The programme is expected to welcome approximately 20–25 students from around the world. At the end of the programme, participants will present their research findings at a closing symposium.
Also read: Stamps Scholarship 2027 Offers Fully Funded Undergraduate Study at the University of Miami
Who Can Apply?
The EPFL Summer Research Programme 2027 is open to international students who meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree programme.
- Bachelor’s students must have completed at least two years of their degree.
- Master’s students must be in the first year of their programme.
- Study biology, biophysics, chemistry, bioengineering, bioinformatics, quantitative biology, genetics, medical sciences, or a related life sciences field.
- Have an excellent academic record.
- Demonstrate an interest in pursuing a career in the life sciences.
- Have a basic understanding of life sciences.
Previous research experience is not required. This makes the programme an opportunity for students who want to explore scientific research and develop their laboratory skills.
Programme Benefits
The EPFL Summer Research Programme provides financial support and academic opportunities to help participants focus on their research experience.
According to the available programme information, the funding package includes:
- CHF 3,600 stipend for participants.
- Accommodation in Lausanne.
- Travel reimbursement of up to CHF 1,000 for overseas flights.
- Travel reimbursement of up to CHF 500 for shorter-distance travel.
Participants will also receive the following academic and professional benefits:
- Eight weeks of hands-on laboratory research.
- Mentorship and guidance from EPFL faculty members.
- Access to scientific seminars.
- Opportunities to develop research presentation skills.
- Social and cultural activities.
- The opportunity to present their research at the closing symposium.
Applicants should review the official programme guidelines for the exact terms and conditions of financial support.
Required Application Documents
Before submitting an application, prospective participants should prepare the following documents and information:
- Academic Transcript: A record of academic performance from the applicant’s current degree programme.
- Recommendation Letter: One letter of recommendation from an appropriate referee.
- Referee Details: Contact information for the person providing the recommendation.
- Laboratory Choice Explanations: Information explaining the applicant’s preferred research laboratories.
- Motivation Letter: A statement describing the applicant’s interests and reasons for joining the programme.
Applicants should ensure that their documents are complete and accurately reflect their academic background and research interests.
How to Apply
The application process is conducted online. Interested students can follow these steps:
- Read the programme guidelines and confirm your eligibility.
- Review the available research areas and identify laboratories that match your academic interests.
- Gather your academic transcript, recommendation letter, referee details, laboratory choice explanations, and motivation letter.
- Enter your personal and academic information and provide the required details about your preferred laboratories.
- Check that all information and documents are complete before submitting the form.
For official information and application instructions, visit the EPFL Summer Research Programme website and follow the latest guidance provided by the university.
Conclusion
The EPFL Summer Research Programme 2027 offers students in the life sciences an opportunity to experience research in an international academic environment. Beyond financial support, the programme provides access to scientific mentorship and laboratory work that can help participants explore future research and academic careers.
Students who meet the eligibility criteria should start preparing their application documents and identifying laboratories that match their interests. With the application deadline set for November 15, 2026, early preparation can help ensure that the application is complete and ready for submission.
For further details, consult the official EPFL programme information and confirm all application requirements before applying.
