Scholarship Overview
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Program Overview
The EPFL Life Sciences Summer Research Program 2027 is a competitive, fully funded research internship hosted by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland. Running from July 5 to August 27, 2027, this 8-week intensive program enables 20–25 selected students to conduct original research under expert mentorship in one of Europe’s leading life sciences institutions.
EPFL ranks among the world’s top universities for science and technology. The program offers African students—including those from Zimbabwe and the SADC region—a rare opportunity to access cutting-edge research infrastructure, build international networks, and strengthen applications for future graduate study or research careers.
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What the Scholarship Covers
The program provides comprehensive financial support:
- Stipend: CHF 3,600 for the 8-week period
- Accommodation: Free housing provided
- Travel: International airfare support
This funding structure ensures participants can focus entirely on research without financial burden. For students from Zimbabwe and other African countries where currency fluctuations and travel costs present significant barriers, this represents genuinely full funding.
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Eligibility Requirements
Candidates must meet all of the following criteria:
- Nationality: Open to all nationalities worldwide
- Academic level: Currently enrolled in university, having completed at least two years of undergraduate study OR the first year of a Master’s degree by July 2027
- Recent graduates: Those who completed their Bachelor’s degree within one year of the program start are eligible if actively pursuing a Master’s in life sciences or planning a career in the field
- Field of study: Biology, biophysics, chemistry, bioengineering, bioinformatics, quantitative biology, or related disciplines
- Academic foundation: Solid understanding of core life sciences, particularly cell biology and biotechnology
Language: IELTS is not required. This removes a common barrier for African applicants and reduces both cost and preparation time.
Experience: Previous laboratory experience is advantageous but not mandatory. Basic life sciences understanding is essential.
Required Documents
Prepare the following materials before starting your application:
- Curriculum Vitae: 1–2 pages
- Motivation letter: Maximum 750 words
- Lab selection explanation: 2–3 sentences for each of your 3 preferred laboratories
- Academic transcript: Official university transcript or certified list of classes and grades
- Two letters of recommendation: From academic referees who can assess your research potential
How to Apply
The application process is conducted entirely online:
- Review the program FAQs and research available laboratories on the official EPFL website
- Identify three laboratories that match your research interests and background
- Prepare all required documents, ensuring your motivation letter specifically addresses why EPFL and why your selected labs
- Submit your application through the online portal before the deadline
- Monitor your email for any follow-up requests or interview invitations
Application fee: None. This is free to apply.
Program Features
Beyond laboratory research, participants benefit from:
- Intensive research training: 8 weeks of hands-on laboratory work with dedicated mentorship from faculty and scientific staff
- Academic development: Access to scientific seminars and workshops covering both technical skills and personal development
- Research presentation: Closing symposium with poster presentations or talks by all participants
- Social program: Organized activities including a scenic day hike in the Swiss Alps with raclette and BBQs
The combination of rigorous research training and structured networking creates lasting professional relationships and exposure to international academic culture.
Why Apply? Perspectives for African Students
For students from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, and across the SADC region, this program offers specific advantages:
- No English test requirement eliminates cost and scheduling constraints
- Full funding including airfare removes the financial barriers that often exclude African candidates from European opportunities
- Research experience at a top-20 global institution significantly strengthens PhD applications to competitive programs worldwide
- Direct mentorship relationships can lead to recommendation letters and ongoing research collaborations
- Exposure to European academic culture builds confidence and cultural capital for future international study
The small cohort size (20–25 students) ensures personalized attention, though competition is intense. African applicants with strong academic records and clear research motivation should not self-exclude based on perceived competitiveness.
Key Dates
- Application deadline: November 15, 2026
- Program dates: July 5 – August 27, 2027
- Duration: 8 weeks
Apply early to allow time for referees to submit recommendations and to thoroughly research laboratory options.
Official scholarship page: https://www.epfl.ch/schools/sv/education/life-sciences-summer-research-program/
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
