Fully Funded A&A Excursion to CERN 2027 in Switzerland for High School and University Students

Students passionate about physics, astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, and scientific research now have an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world's most prestigious scientific institutions. The A&A Excursion to CERN 2027 is a fully funded international academic program that will bring 15 outstanding students from around the world to the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland, for an immersive week of learning, discovery, and hands-on scientific exploration. Taking place from 13 to 19 June 2027, the program is designed for ambitious high school and undergraduate students who want to deepen their understanding of the universe, from the smallest elementary particles to the largest cosmic structures. Participants will engage directly with researchers, visit world-famous scientific facilities, take part in workshops, conduct data analysis, and collaborate on research projects in an environment that has shaped some of the most important discoveries in modern physics. Application Deadline Deadline: 27 December 2026 All applications must be submitted online before 23:59 Central European Time (CET) on 27 December 2026. About the A&A Excursion to CERN 2027 The A&A Excursion to CERN is a specialized educational program focused on astroparticle physics and cosmology. While CERN is globally known for hosting the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the program highlights a broader scientific mission that includes understanding: • Dark matter • Antimatter • Cosmic rays • Neutrinos • The early universe • Cosmology • Nuclear astrophysics • Fundamental particles and forces The initiative follows the model of CERN's established educational programs while placing a stronger emphasis on astronomy and astrophysics. Throughout the week, students will engage with scientific concepts that connect particle physics to some of the biggest unanswered questions about the universe. Program Overview Location CERN, Geneva, Switzerland Program Dates 13–19 June 2027 Number of Participants 15 students worldwide Language English Accommodation CERN Hostel, Meyrin Campus Funding Fully Funded Organizer A&A Academic Office, Germany What Makes This Program Unique? Unlike traditional science camps or short courses, the excursion provides direct exposure to active scientific research conducted at one of the world's leading research institutions. Participants will: • Learn from scientists and engineers working at CERN • Visit cutting-edge facilities and experiments • Participate in practical workshops • Build and operate scientific equipment • Analyze real scientific data • Conduct collaborative research projects • Network with international peers who share similar academic interests The program serves as an ideal stepping stone for students considering future studies and careers in physics, astronomy, engineering, computer science, and scientific research. Program Components 1. Advanced Scientific Lectures Students will attend daily lectures specifically designed for advanced secondary school and early university-level learners. Lecture topics include: • The Standard Model of Particle Physics • Cosmic Rays • Dark Matter • Antimatter • Cosmology • The Early Universe • Particle Detection Methods • Nuclear Astrophysics • Data Analysis in Large Scientific Experiments No previous background in particle physics is required, making the program accessible to motivated learners with strong foundational science knowledge. 2. Guided Visits to CERN Facilities Participants will gain rare access to several important CERN facilities and experiments. The Antimatter Factory Students will visit the Antiproton Decelerator and the ELENA ring, where antimatter particles are produced and studied. Researchers here investigate: • The behavior of antimatter • Antihydrogen formation • Fundamental symmetries of nature • The mystery of why matter dominates the universe Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) Operations Participants will explore the control center for the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, a powerful experiment operating aboard the International Space Station. Topics include: • Cosmic rays • Space-based particle detection • Dark matter searches • Astroparticle physics CERN Data Centre Students will learn how immense amounts of scientific data are processed and stored. The visit provides insights into: • Scientific computing • Big data infrastructure • International computing grids • Data analysis workflows CLOUD Experiment The CLOUD experiment demonstrates how particle physics interacts with atmospheric science. Researchers investigate: • Cosmic rays • Aerosol formation • Cloud development • Climate-related phenomena Large Hadron Collider Experiments Depending on operational schedules and access availability, students may visit one of the major LHC experiments or associated control rooms. These experiments recreate conditions similar to those that existed shortly after the Big Bang. CERN Science Gateway Students will spend time at CERN's modern science education facility, featuring: • Interactive exhibitions • Educational laboratories • Workshop spaces • Scientific demonstrations Hands-On Learning Opportunities A major strength of the program is its emphasis on experiential learning. Participants will not simply attend lectures. They will actively engage in scientific practice. Detector Workshop Students will: • Build a simple particle detector • Learn particle detection principles • Collect and interpret experimental observations Data Analysis Activities Participants will work with: • Real scientific datasets • Astroparticle research data • Computational analysis techniques • Scientific interpretation methods These activities provide practical skills commonly used by working scientists. Meet Scientists and Researchers One of the most valuable aspects of the excursion is the interaction with professionals at all career stages. Students will participate in discussions with: • Physicists • Engineers • Researchers • Doctoral students • Laboratory staff Topics include: • Research careers • University pathways • Graduate education • International scientific collaborations • Daily life at CERN These conversations offer unique career guidance and inspiration for aspiring scientists. Group Research Project Throughout the week, participants work in small teams on a scientific research question. The project experience includes: • Problem identification • Data gathering and analysis • Team collaboration • Scientific discussion • Presentation of findings On the final day, students present their results to fellow participants and program staff. This exercise helps strengthen: • Critical thinking • Scientific communication • Research methodology • Teamwork skills Scientific Topics Covered The curriculum explores a wide range of modern scientific themes: Particle Physics • Standard Model • Fundamental particles • Forces of nature • Current limitations of theory Cosmology • The Big Bang • Evolution of the universe • Cosmic microwave background • Formation of early structures Dark Matter Research • Astronomical evidence • Detection strategies • Experimental searches • Current scientific challenges Antimatter Studies • Matter-antimatter asymmetry • Antihydrogen experiments • Fundamental questions in physics Cosmic Rays • Origins of cosmic particles • Detection techniques • Space-based observations Neutrino Science • Neutrino properties • Multi-messenger astronomy • Experimental techniques Nuclear Astrophysics • Formation of chemical elements • Stellar processes • Cosmic nucleosynthesis Scientific Computing • Data analysis • Research computing • International scientific collaboration Program Schedule Sunday, 13 June 2027 • Arrival • Hostel check-in • Orientation • Welcome dinner Monday, 14 June 2027 • Introduction to CERN • Standard Model lectures • Campus tour • Science Gateway visit Tuesday, 15 June 2027 • Cosmic ray lectures • AMS Control Centre visit • Detector workshop Wednesday, 16 June 2027 • Antimatter Factory visit • Dark matter lecture • Guided afternoon in Geneva Thursday, 17 June 2027 • Cosmology lecture • CERN Data Centre visit • CLOUD experiment visit • Meeting researchers Friday, 18 June 2027 • Data analysis workshop • Research projects • Results presentations • Closing dinner Saturday, 19 June 2027 • Feedback session • Departure Financial Support and Benefits The program covers almost all participation costs. What Is Covered? Accommodation • Six nights at the CERN Hostel Meals • All meals throughout the program Local Transportation • Transport within Geneva • Transportation between program locations Educational Activities • Lectures • Workshops • Laboratory visits • Materials Travel Grant • Up to USD 1,250 • Reimbursed after participation against receipts • Travel booking support available from the organizers Costs Participants Must Cover The following expenses are not covered: • Visa fees • Passport and travel document costs • Personal expenses • Health insurance • Optional travel insurance Participants must possess health insurance valid in Switzerland. Reserved Places for A&A Masterclass Alumni Five of the fifteen available places are reserved for students who have successfully completed the A&A Masterclass and obtained a certificate. However: • Alumni apply through the same application process. • They are evaluated under the same criteria. • They may compete for both reserved and general places. • Unfilled reserved places become available to other applicants. Application Requirements Applicants must submit: Mandatory Documents • Curriculum Vitae (CV) • Motivation Letter • Latest Academic Transcript Optional Documents • Olympiad certificates • Competition certificates • Course certificates • Research internship certificates Supporting documents should be combined into one PDF where applicable. Writing the Motivation Letter The motivation letter should be one to two pages long and written in English. Applicants are encouraged to discuss: • Their interest in physics and astronomy • Research experiences • Independent learning activities • Scientific projects • Competitions and Olympiads • Questions that inspire their curiosity • What they hope to gain from the CERN experience Selection committees typically value authenticity and specificity more than extensive lists of achievements. Click here to apply. Selection Process Stage 1: Online Application Submit all required documents before: 27 December 2026 Stage 2: Interview Shortlisted applicants will participate in a 20-minute online interview in early January 2027. Topics include: • Academic interests • Research experiences • Motivation • Future goals Stage 3: Final Decision Applicants will be notified in mid-January 2027. Selected participants must confirm their places within two weeks. Stage 4: Preparation Between February and May 2027, participants receive: • Travel information • Visa support letters • Program materials • Detailed schedules Practical Information Accommodation Participants stay at CERN Hostel near lecture venues and dining facilities. Meals Dietary requirements can be accommodated when communicated in advance. Travel Geneva Airport and Geneva Railway Station provide convenient access to CERN via public transportation. Visa Support Selected participants requiring visas receive official invitation letters. Supervision Program staff accompany participants throughout the week, including support for participants under 18 years old. Certificate Participants who complete the entire program receive a certificate of participation. For similar opportunities, see here. Conclusion The Fully Funded A&A Excursion to CERN 2027 represents a rare and prestigious opportunity for aspiring scien

• Passionate about physics, astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, or scientific research • High school or undergraduate student • Strong foundational science knowledge • English language proficiency