CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026 Offers Fully Funded Internships in Switzerland

Applications are now being accepted for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026, a fully funded internship opportunity for Bachelor's and Master's students from all nationalities. The program offers a unique chance to contribute to cutting-edge IT projects at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland.

Program Overview

The CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Program is a nine-week intensive program scheduled to take place in June-August 2026. It provides participants with hands-on experience in advanced IT projects, mentorship from CERN experts, and access to CERN's world-renowned facilities. The program is specifically designed for students with a strong background in computer science, software engineering, or related IT fields.

Program Dates: June-August 2026 (9 weeks) Location: Geneva, Switzerland Eligibility: Bachelor's and Master's students (graduating no later than May 2026) Nationality: Open to all nationalities Financial Support: Fully Funded Application Deadline: January 26, 2026

Unparalleled Learning and Development

Participants in the CERN OPENLAB Summer Program will have the opportunity to work on a variety of IT projects, ranging from data acquisition and analysis to software development and network infrastructure. They will collaborate with CERN researchers and engineers, gaining invaluable experience in a highly collaborative and innovative environment.

According to Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of Computer Science at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich), "Programs like CERN OPENLAB are crucial for fostering the next generation of IT professionals. The hands-on experience and mentorship provided by CERN are invaluable, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges."

Financial Benefits

The CERN OPENLAB Summer Program is fully funded, providing comprehensive financial support to participants:

Daily Stipend: 93 CHF/day (covers accommodation and meals) Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare reimbursement Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage throughout the program Accommodation Assistance: Support in finding suitable housing on or near the CERN site

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Must be enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program with a strong computing profile. Must have completed at least three years of full-time university-level studies by Summer 2026. Students graduating in the Summer of 2026 (May) are also eligible to apply. Must remain enrolled as a student during their CERN internship. Must not have previously worked at CERN.

Required Application Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their application:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) Most recent academic transcript Reference letter(s) (at least one, preferably two)

Applicants are advised to be as specific as possible in the "Education" and "Experience" sections of the application form.

How to Apply

The application process for the CERN OPENLAB Summer Program 2026 is entirely online. Interested candidates can find the application portal on the CERN OPENLAB website. It is highly recommended to prepare all necessary documents and information in advance, as the application form cannot be saved and must be completed in one session.

Professor David Lee, a career advisor at the University of Geneva, emphasizes the importance of tailoring applications to the specific program. "Highlighting relevant skills and experiences, and clearly articulating your motivation for wanting to participate in the CERN OPENLAB program, can significantly increase your chances of acceptance," he advises.

Historical Context and Significance

CERN has a long and distinguished history of fostering scientific innovation and collaboration. Since its establishment in 1954, CERN has been at the forefront of particle physics research, leading to groundbreaking discoveries that have transformed our understanding of the universe. The OPENLAB program, established in 2001, extends this tradition by providing opportunities for students to contribute to the IT infrastructure that supports CERN's scientific endeavors. These programs play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers, ensuring the continued advancement of scientific knowledge.

The Future of STEM Education and CERN's Role

CERN's commitment to education and training extends beyond the OPENLAB program. The organization offers a wide range of opportunities for students and researchers at all levels, including summer schools, workshops, and fellowships. These initiatives contribute significantly to STEM education globally, helping to inspire and train the next generation of scientists and engineers. As technology continues to evolve, the skills and experience gained through programs like CERN OPENLAB will become increasingly valuable, preparing students for successful careers in a wide range of fields.