UNIL Summer Research Programme 2026 | Fully Funded in Switzerland

Applications for the 2026 UNIL Summer Research Programme are now open for all international students. The SUR Programme is an intensive 8-week summer research experience (typically in July-August) held in Lausanne, Switzerland, under the Faculty of Biology & Medicine at UNIL.

It brings together around 15 undergraduate students from across the world, giving them the chance to work on a research project in a UNIL laboratory, alongside academics and PhD researchers.

Beyond lab work, the programme includes seminars, career workshops, and some social/cultural activities (e.g., hikes, visits to Switzerland) to enrich the experience.

UNIL Summer Research Programme Summary

Benefits of the UNIL Summer Research Programme

• Accommodation is provided in furnished apartments at UNIL for the duration of the programme.
• A living allowance (scholarship stipend) of approximately CHF 1,500 to cover meals and personal living expenses during the summer.
• Travel allowance for overseas participants (non-Europe) up to about CHF 1,200, and for Europe around CHF 500.
• Visa assistance is available for participants who require one to travel to Switzerland.
• Access to cutting-edge research labs in biology/medicine, networking with international peers and faculty, and a strong CV-building experience.
• Cultural and social activities in and around Lausanne, offering international exposure and personal growth.

Also Check: CERN Summer Student Programme 2026 in Switzerland

Eligibility Requirements for the UNIL Summer Research Internship

Here are the eligibility criteria:

• Applicants of all nationalities are eligible.
• Must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree in biology, medicine, or a related life sciences field.
• Applicants should have completed at least two years of their undergraduate degree and usually must still be undergraduates (i.e., not already graduating or in a master’s program).
• Strong academic record. For example, one source mentions being in the top 5 % of class or equivalent.
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken) is required because the programme is in English.
• Willingness and ability to commit to the full 8-week duration of the programme.

Also Check: MIT Summer Research Internship Program 2026 in USA

Required Documents for UNIL Summer Research Internship

Applicants will need to prepare the following:

1. Official academic transcripts (Bachelor-level courses) in PDF format. If they are not in English or French, an authenticated translation must be included.
2. Two letters of recommendation from people familiar with your academic work (e.g., professors). These may be submitted via a template provided by UNIL.
3. A completed application questionnaire in PDF format (often using a template provided). This includes your motivation statement, proposed labs, and your research interests.
4. In the application, you will typically need to select two host laboratories at UNIL in which you’d like to work during the programme.
5. Good to have your CV (academic relevance, any prizes/fellowships, volunteer/work experience,) though not always explicitly listed in every source.
6. Proof of English language proficiency may be requested (though some announcements do not explicitly say “IELTS/TOEFL required”).

Also Check: CERN OPENLAB Summer Student Programme 2026 in Switzerland

How to Apply for the UNIL Summer Research Programme

Here’s a typical application process:

1. Check the UNIL SUR programme website for the current year (and download the application guide/questionnaire template).
2. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare your documents (transcripts, translation if needed, recommendation letter contact details, motivation/statement, lab choices).
3. Complete the online application form via the UNIL portal. You will usually upload your PDF documents (transcripts, questionnaire, etc.).
4. Provide contact information for your referees so that recommendation letters can be submitted (often via an automatic email from the system).
5. Indicate in your application which research labs (two choices) at UNIL you are interested in working with.
6. Apply by the deadline (31 December).
7. Wait for notification of results (selected candidates will be informed via email). Then accept the offer, prepare for travel/visa, accommodation arrangements, etc.

Also Check: RIPS Summer Research Internship Program 2026 in USA