During 8 weeks in July and August, the SUR Programme hosts about 20 students from around the world to perform cutting-edge research projects within one of the host laboratories of the UNILÂ Faculty of Biology and Medicine.
While most of the time is spent in the host lab, each week the students come together for shared academic activities, often with participants of the sister programme at the EPFL. These including introductory student research presentations, lectures from faculty members on research topics and their career paths, and career guidance workshops in academia and beyond.
At the end of the summer, students present the results of their research on a poster during a joint UNIL/EPFL Symposium and write a final report.
Students also enjoy many social activities, including a hike in the Alps, barbecues, swimming in Lac Leman, and visits to other cities in Switzerland!
The programme is geared towards undergraduate students at the end of the second or third year of their degree.
We welcome students studying any field in the life sciences, as well as those pursuing medical studies. UNIL is unique in having a combined Faculty of Biology and Medicine, and we are keen to offer to medical students the possibility to perform research.
Students of any nationality, studying in any country, are welcome to apply, but should have very good English language skills. While most students come from abroad, applications from local students from the UNILÂ or the EPFL (or elsewhere in Switzerland) are also welcome.
Scholarships, Accommodation, Travel and Visas
A scholarship is awarded to all participants, which covers:
- Housing for the duration of the programme (the programme will organise accommodation)
- Living expenses (including local transportation in Lausanne)
- Tuition costs
Limited funds are also available to cover justified costs of travel to Lausane. In general, up to CHF 500 for European travel and CHF 1200 for overseas travel is covered. Original receipts and boarding passes will be required for reimbursement.
Assistance will be provided to all students who requires Visas to come to Switzerland.
Participants must be covered for health and accident from their home country.
