SA-CERN Excellence Scholarships 2027 SA-CERN Bursary

The South African Department of Science and Innovation and the National Research Foundation are welcoming applications for the 2027 SA CERN Excellence Scholarship Programme.

The main aim of the SA – CERN programme is to make the facilities at the European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland available to South African researchers, engineers, technicians and students.

The SA-CERN programme gives scientists and research students in South Africa access to the data obtained at CERN and allows them to take part in the running of experiments in Geneva.

The outcomes are world-class research, participation in global science, high-level capacity development, innovation and technology transfer leading to competitive industry and infrastructure, the attraction of high-quality young South Africans into the Science and Technology system, and the development of the public understanding of science.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  ● A proven track record of excellence and clear evidence of outstanding future potential.  The ideal candidate should have completed their previous degree with an aggregate of 65%.
  ● The research project and supervisor within the SA-CERN Programme:        – The project must align with one of the Programme’s pillars: ALICE, ATLAS, ISOLDE, THEORY or Technology Transfer.
       – The supervisor must be an SA-CERN member.
  ● Registration at a South African university for full-time MSc or PhD studies commencing in 2027.

The SA-CERN Programme Excellence Bursaries will provide full-cost-of-study support for successful applicants commencing their studies in the 2027 academic year, for the duration of their studies. This includes sponsorship of research trips to CERN aligned with the selected students’ projects.
The bursary is open only to applicants starting their MSc or PhD studies in 2027. The bursary values per annum are as follows:
● MSc level: up to R150 000.
● PhD level: up to R200 000.

To apply:

Complete this form by clicking the “NEXT” button and upload the following required documents. 

• 1

    An up-to-date CV.

• 2

    A copy of your full academic record.

• 3

    A statement of purpose addressing: 1. The proposed research topic. 2. The proposed supervisor.

• 4

    A copy of your South African ID document.

• 5

    Three letters of recommendation.

• 6

    Copies of any research publications/reports you have authored or co-authored.

• 7

    A copy of your dissertation from your previous level of study.