Paul Scherrer Institute Summer Student Program
The Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) Summer Student Programme offers hands-on research internships to bachelor's students about to graduate and master's students. Participants work on research projects within PSI research groups across centers like Neutron and Muon Sciences, Photon Science, Scientific Computing, and more. The programme includes a supporting schedule with lectures on PSI research, campus tours, social events such as barbecues, and opportunities for students to present their work via lightning talks and posters.
The internship duration is typically 8-12 weeks, flexible based on student and supervisor availability, with the core supporting programme from July 2 to August 21, 2026. Financial support is provided to cover living costs in the area, though the exact amount is not specified on official pages. Housing may be arranged depending on availability.
Applications are submitted online to one specific PSI center via job postings, including a CV (max 2 pages), motivation letter (1 page), and optional references. For 2026, applications opened around November-December 2025 and closed January 31, 2026, with decisions in April 2026. Non-EU/EFTA students require university collaboration agreements and proof of compulsory internship.
Eligibility Requirements
- Completed at least 3 years of full-time university studies by summer 2026 in physics, natural sciences, engineering, IT, or related fields
- Bachelor's students graduating by summer 2026 or enrolled in Master's programme (no Master's obtained by summer 2026)
- Not previously a PSI summer student
- Good working knowledge of English and basic computing skills
- Ability to participate in full core programme (July 2 - August 21, 2026)
- For non-EU/EFTA: university must have PSI collaboration agreement; internship must be compulsory
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.