SA-CERN Programme Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program 2025 for Young South Africans

Applications are now open for the 2025 SA-CERN Programme Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program.The SA-CERN Programme seeks outstanding individuals to support their MSc or PhD studies in research related to the CERN facility. Click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.

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About SA-CERN Programme Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program

Opportunity Details

The goal is to support a pipeline of representative, excellent postgraduate students to become the next generation of South African academics studying the fundamental nature of the Universe. The SA-CERN Programme Excellence Bursaries will provide the full cost of study support for the 2025 academic year for the duration of studies of successful individuals. 

This includes sponsorship of research trips to CERN aligned with the projects of selected students. The bursary is eligible only to those starting their MSc or PhD studies.

Benefits of SA-CERN Programme Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program

The Bursary values per annum are as follows:

  • MSc level: ~R115 000 – 150 000
  • PhD level: ~R102 000 – R177 000

SA-CERN Programme Excellence MSc/PhD Bursary Program Requirements

  • A proven track record of excellence and clear evidence of outstanding future potential. The ideal candidate should have finished the previous degree with an aggregate of 65%. 
  • The research project and supervisor must be within the SA-CERN Programme, i.e. – project must align with one of the pillars: ALICE, ATLAS, ISOLDE, THEORY or Technology Transfer – supervisor must be an SA-CERN member 
  • Registration at a South African university for full-time studies from 2025 
  • South African citizenship

Application Date and Process

To apply, please use the following link by 20 December 2024. Please make sure to upload the following required documents: 

  • your up-to-date CV 
  • copy of your full academic record; 
  • statement of purpose, which must address your 
    1) proposed research topic, 
    2) proposed supervisor; 
  • copy of your ID document;
  • three letters of recommendation (should be sent separately by letter writers); 
  • copies of any research publications/reports you have (co-)authored; and 
  • copies of your dissertation from your previous level of study. 
  • For general queries with the application process, email to [email protected]

Application Deadline

20 December, 2024

Scholarship Application Portal

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