EPFL Excellence Research Internship Offers Paid Opportunity in Switzerland for 2026 Applications are now being accepted for the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Excellence Research Internship Program (ERIP) in Switzerland, offering undergraduate and master's students a fully funded, three-month research experience. The program, slated to commence in February or August of 2026, provides a monthly stipend to cover housing and living expenses while interns conduct research at one of Switzerland's leading science and technology institutions.

Internship Details and Benefits The EPFL ERIP aims to attract talented international students to engage in cutting-edge research within EPFL's laboratories. This immersive experience not only provides valuable research skills but also exposes interns to the academic environment at EPFL, with many participants later choosing to pursue graduate studies at the university.

Key Program Features:

Host Country: Switzerland Location: Lausanne University: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) Duration: Three Months Deadline: November 30, 2025

Financial Support and Additional Benefits:

Monthly stipend covering housing and living expenses. Exemption from tuition fees. Simplified visa and residence permit procedures. Discounted living costs on meals, activities, and other expenses at EPFL. Free access to sports facilities. Comprehensive student support and activities.

Eligibility Requirements for the EPFL ERIP To be eligible for the EPFL Excellence Research Internship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Have completed at least their second year of an undergraduate degree program. Be currently enrolled as a full-time student at their home university throughout the internship period. Be nominated by their home institution’s international exchange office. Be from one of EPFL’s partner universities (a list of partner universities is provided below).

Partner Universities:

Canada: McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Toronto, University of Waterloo Singapore: Nanyang Technological University – NTU Singapore United States: Carnegie Mellon University, Johns Hopkins University, University of California, San Diego, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Students from universities not listed above may consider applying for the EPFL E3 Summer Internship or the EPFL Life Sciences Summer Program, which are open to a wider range of international students.

Required Application Materials Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) Motivation Letter Official Transcripts Contact Information of Two References Passport Scan (PDF format) List of Three Preferred EPFL Laboratories

Historical Context and the Importance of International Research Opportunities The EPFL ERIP is part of a broader trend of universities worldwide offering international research internships. These programs are crucial for fostering global collaboration in science and technology, and for nurturing the next generation of researchers. Historically, scientific advancements have often been the result of collaborative efforts across borders, and international internships provide a platform for students to contribute to this tradition. The rise of globalization in the late 20th and early 21st centuries has further emphasized the importance of cross-cultural exchange in research, leading to increased funding and support for programs like the EPFL ERIP.

Expert Perspective "International research internships like the EPFL ERIP are invaluable for students seeking to broaden their academic horizons and develop crucial research skills," says Dr. Anya Sharma, a professor of international education at the University of Geneva. "These programs not only provide hands-on experience in a world-class research environment but also foster intercultural understanding and collaboration, which are essential for addressing global challenges." Dr. Sharma also notes the importance of institutional support, stating, "The nomination process by the home institution's international exchange office ensures that students are well-prepared and supported throughout their internship experience."

Application Process Interested candidates must apply online through the EPFL website. The application portal can be found on the official EPFL website under the "Internships" or "Research Opportunities" section.

The Future of International Internships As global challenges become increasingly complex, the demand for international collaboration in research is expected to grow. Programs like the EPFL ERIP play a vital role in preparing students to become global citizens and leaders in their respective fields. By providing opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research in an international setting, these programs contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the development of solutions to pressing global issues.