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Applications are now open for the SA-CERN Program Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program 2025, an initiative offering South African students the chance to conduct research connected to CERN—the European Organization for Nuclear Research, the largest particle physics laboratory in the world, located in Geneva, Switzerland. This prestigious bursary program is designed to support high-achieving South African MSc and PhD students interested in groundbreaking research and aims to foster a new generation of skilled researchers and scientists equipped to make significant contributions in fields related to CERN’s experiments and technologies.
Application Deadline
- Deadline: December 20, 2024
This deadline allows applicants time to gather the necessary documents and complete their applications for the 2025 academic year.
About the SA-CERN Program Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program
The SA-CERN Program Excellence Bursary is administered by NRF-iThemba LABS and funded by the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI). It supports South African MSc and PhD students conducting research connected to CERN’s international collaborative projects, including the ALICE, ATLAS, and ISOLDE experiments. These projects are at the forefront of physics research, exploring phenomena from particle collisions to fundamental aspects of nuclear structure, astrophysics, and the development of high-performance computing technologies.
The bursary offers full funding to selected students for the 2025 academic year, covering tuition, living expenses, and sponsored research trips to CERN. This immersive experience allows students to participate in a dynamic international research community, furthering their academic growth and exposure to cutting-edge advancements in physics and technology.
Eligible Fields of Study
Applicants interested in the SA-CERN Program Excellence Bursary must be pursuing studies and research in one or more of the following areas:
- Quantum-field theories
- Fundamental interactions
- Nuclear structure and astrophysics
- Solid-state physics
- LHC (Large Hadron Collider) data analysis
- Big data and artificial intelligence
- Particle detectors and technology
- High-performance and high-throughput computing
- Digital electronics
These fields are aligned with CERN’s objectives and cutting-edge experiments, providing students with the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the global scientific community.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the SA-CERN Program Excellence Bursary Program:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must hold South African citizenship.
- Enrollment Status: Candidates must be registered or planning to register for full-time MSc or PhD studies at a recognized South African university starting in 2025.
- Research Project Alignment: The proposed research topic must align with one of the SA-CERN Programme’s pillars—ALICE, ATLAS, ISOLDE, THEORY, or Technology Transfer.
- SA-CERN Member Supervisor: Applicants must have a designated supervisor who is a member of the SA-CERN Program.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance with a minimum aggregate of 65% in their previous degree.
Required Application Documents
To complete the application process, candidates need to provide the following documents:
- Updated CV: A detailed curriculum vitae outlining academic, professional, and research achievements.
- Full Academic Record: Official transcripts from prior university studies.
- Statement of Purpose: A comprehensive document detailing the applicant’s proposed research topic, goals, and the name of the proposed supervisor.
- Copy of ID Document: A clear and legible copy of the applicant’s South African ID.
- Three Letters of Recommendation: Letters from academic or professional recommenders attesting to the applicant’s suitability for the bursary. These letters must be submitted directly by the recommenders.
- Research Publications or Reports: Any authored research papers, publications, or reports that demonstrate the applicant’s research capabilities and experience.
- Previous Level Dissertation: A copy of the applicant’s dissertation or thesis from their most recent level of study, showcasing their academic rigor and research skills.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee will evaluate applications based on the following criteria:
- Academic Excellence and Potential: Evidence of strong academic performance and future potential for success in research.
- Alignment with SA-CERN Program: The proposed research project must closely align with the pillars and objectives of the SA-CERN Programme.
Eligible Countries
The bursary program is open exclusively to South African students who meet the eligibility criteria and are enrolled at a recognized South African university.
Benefits of the SA-CERN Program Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program
Selected candidates receive comprehensive financial and research support, which includes:
- Full Cost of Study Support: The bursary provides funding for tuition, living expenses, and other essential academic costs.
- MSc Level: Funding ranges from approximately R115,000 to R150,000 per annum.
- PhD Level: Funding ranges from approximately R102,000 to R177,000 per annum.
- Sponsored Research Trips to CERN: Selected students have the opportunity to conduct research at CERN, gaining direct access to world-class resources, state-of-the-art facilities, and an international network of scientists.
- Enhanced Career and Academic Prospects: The bursary offers unparalleled exposure to advanced scientific research and boosts the career prospects of recipients through engagement with CERN’s global scientific community.
Duration of the Award
The SA-CERN Program Excellence Bursary provides support for the full duration of the MSc or PhD program, as stipulated by the recipient’s academic institution and field of study. This ensures recipients can fully immerse in their research without financial concerns, enabling them to focus on making meaningful contributions to their chosen field.
Application Process
To apply for the SA-CERN Program Excellence Bursary:
- Visit the Application Portal: Access the application link provided by SA-CERN.
- Upload Documents: Ensure all required documents are uploaded in the specified format.
- Submit by the Deadline: Complete and submit the application by December 20, 2024. Late submissions will not be considered.
For more information on the bursary and to apply, visit the SA-CERN website or consult the application portal directly.
Conclusion
The SA-CERN Program Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program is an exceptional opportunity for South African students to engage in world-leading research and innovation at CERN. By providing full financial support, sponsored research trips, and mentorship, this program fosters academic and professional excellence, preparing the next generation of scientists to excel in their fields. If you’re a driven MSc or PhD student with a passion for particle physics, nuclear research, or advanced computing, don’t miss out on this prestigious opportunity to contribute to CERN’s global mission and elevate your career to new heights.
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