CERN - CERN Openlab Student Programme

CERN Openlab Summer Student Programme

You will spend nine weeks (June to August) working on a real-world computer science project at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research. You will receive a daily allowance of 94 CHF (approximately 2,200 EUR over the full nine weeks, tax-free). In addition, at the end of your stay you will receive a lump-sum travel allowance, health insurance through CERN’s own scheme, and assistance with finding accommodation. Each student is assigned a dedicated supervisor at CERN and works on a project. You will also attend computer science lectures designed specifically for you, attend the general lectures for summer students, and visit CERN’s accelerators. At the end, you will write a short report and give a public presentation. CERN openlab is a partnership between CERN and technology companies that develop computational tools for particle physics research; consequently, the projects cover topics such as machine learning, distributed data processing, data storage and 3D simulation.

Who can apply

• Level: You are a Bachelor’s or Master’s student, not a PhD student.
• Study progress: By the summer of the programme year, you will have completed at least 6 semesters (3 full years) of full-time study at a higher education institution.
• Field: You are studying computer science, mathematics, engineering or physics. Students from other disciplines may also apply, provided your academic transcript shows that you have a sound knowledge of computer science.
• Still enrolled: You are enrolled as a student during your stay. If you are due to graduate that same summer (from May onwards), you can still apply.
• Computing profile: You have genuine practical experience in the field of computer science.
• Language: You speak and write English well.
• Nationality: Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply, including those from countries that are not CERN Member States.
• No repeats: You have not yet taken part in the CERN Summer Student Programme and have not worked at CERN in any other capacity for more than 3 months.

How to apply

Applications are made online via CERN’s SmartRecruiters portal. You will need to upload your CV in English, your most recent academic transcript and an academic reference. A cover letter is recommended but optional. The application deadline is at the end of February, and you will receive a response by the end of March or early April. You cannot choose your project yourself, but you can indicate your preferences when applying.