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.

How realistic are your chances?

CERN is world-renowned, and the programme is open to students of all nationalities, meaning that a large and strong field of applicants competes for the limited number of places. Grades and a clear profile in the field of computer science are the most important factors here. Specific projects, programming experience or relevant skills listed on your academic transcript are what set applicants apart from the rest. If you have completed three years of study and can demonstrate practical experience in computer science, be sure to apply well in advance of the application deadline.