Don’t Miss Out: 12 Funded Research Programs Closing Soon!

Two years ago, I started applying for funded summer research programs abroad. At the time, I thought it would be nearly impossible to get accepted into one. But the more programs I discovered, the more I realized: Why not? Applying widely increases your chances, and you never know who might see potential in your profile.

While my primary interest lies in quantum computing, I found many opportunities in computer science, mathematics, and related fields that include quantum research as one of their domains. In this article, I’ll share some of the research programs I’ve come across—all with deadlines in the next two weeks.

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A Quick Note: Deadlines are often tied to specific time zones, so double-check the exact hour. To avoid last-minute technical issues, aim to submit your application a day or two early. Also, if recommendations are required, make sure to handle that well in advance.

When I was applying, I found it helpful to organize everything using Notion databases. I’ve included all these programs (and more) in a structured Notion database. You can clone it, add a status column, and track your applications easily. Check it out here: Research Opportunities for Internationals.

Now, let’s dive into the opportunities!

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1. CERN Summer Student Programme

Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Deadline: January 26, 2025 (23:59 CET)
CERN offers three summer programs that are perfect for students passionate about physics, engineering, and computer science. I’ve written a detailed article about these programs, which you can find here: Insights into CERN Summer Programs.

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2. iQuHack (MIT iQuISE Quantum Hackathon)

Location: Online
Dates: January 31 - February 2, 2025
Deadline: January 30, 2025 (11:59 PM EST)
While not an internship, this hackathon is a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience in quantum computing. It’s organized by MIT iQuISE and is a great opportunity to network and learn.

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3. DESY Summer Student Programme 2025

Location: Hamburg or Zeuthen, Germany
Program Dates: July 22 - September 11, 2025
Deadline: January 31, 2025
DESY offers an 8-week research experience in fields like photon science, elementary particle physics, and astroparticle physics. Selected students work alongside research groups at DESY laboratories.

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4. PCMI 2025 Undergraduate Summer School

Location: PCMI, USA
Topic: Extremal Graph Theory and Ramsey Theory
Deadline: January 31, 2025
This program is a unique opportunity for undergraduates to dive into fascinating mathematical ideas while interacting with mathematicians at all levels.

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5. AScI International Summer Research Programme

Location: Aalto University, Finland
Deadline: January 31, 2025 (UTC+2)
With approximately 52 positions available across 7 departments, this program offers projects in computer science, physics, electrical engineering, and more.

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6. MCQST Summer Bachelor Program

Location: Germany
Program Dates: July 29 - August 29, 2025
Deadline: February 1, 2025
Open to bachelor’s students in physics, mathematics, computer science, and related fields, this program provides hands-on experience in quantum science and technology.

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7. Research in Industrial Projects for Students (RIPS) 2025

Location: UCLA, USA
Deadline: February 3, 2025 (11:59 PM Pacific Time)
RIPS is designed for undergraduates or recent graduates with a strong background in mathematics. It’s a great way to see how math is applied in real-world industrial projects.

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8. Summer@ICERM 2025

Location: Brown University, USA
Topic: Building Useful Insights from Local Data
Deadline: February 4, 2025
This program introduces students to data science through projects related to global food systems, production, and security. It’s perfect for those with limited experience in the field.

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9. France-Stanford Center Undergraduate Internship/Fellowship Program

Location: Various institutions in France
Deadline: February 4, 2025
This program offers internships and fellowships in engineering, computer science, physics, and mathematics for undergraduates.

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10. ISTernship Fellowship

Location: IST Austria
Deadline: February 5, 2025 (15:00 CET)
Open to bachelor’s and master’s students in natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, and related fields, this fellowship provides interdisciplinary research experience.

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11. Summer Student Fellowship

Location: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, USA
Deadline: February 5, 2025
This fellowship is for undergraduates who will have completed their junior year by the start of the program. Research areas include ocean physics, biology, geology, and more.

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12. Undergraduate Summer Research Opportunities at Vanderbilt University

Location: Vanderbilt University, USA
Deadline: February 7, 2025 (11:59 PM CST)
Vanderbilt offers a variety of research projects in computer science, electrical engineering, chemistry, and more, supervised by faculty members.

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Final Thoughts

Applying to research programs can feel overwhelming, but remember: every application is a step forward. Even if you don’t get accepted, the process of applying—refining your CV, writing personal statements, and seeking recommendations—is invaluable.

If you’re interested in tracking these opportunities (and more), don’t forget to check out the Notion database I created: Research Opportunities for Internationals.

Good luck with your applications, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions!