JINR START Winter Program 2026 in Russia

If you are a motivated undergraduate or early postgraduate student interested in cutting-edge scientific research, the JINR START Winter Program 2026 offers you the chance to work under the supervision of JINR experts in Dubna, Russia. Selected participants will spend 6–8 weeks immersed in advanced projects, gain hands-on experience, and expand their academic network. Applications are open now — here is everything you need to know to apply successfully.

🎓 Program Overview

• Name: START (STudent Advanced Research Training) Winter Session 2026

• Institution: Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR), Dubna, Moscow Region, Russia

• Duration & Interval: 6 to 8 weeks (participation window: 15 February – 27 June 2026)

• Application Deadline: 30 October 2025, 04:00 PM (Moscow / JINR time)

• Selection Deadline: 20 November 2025, 04:00 PM

• Publication of Participants List: 26 December 2025

• Participation Requirements: Work on an advanced research project under a JINR expert; at the end of your stay, prepare and submit a written report which will be published on the program website.

• Geographic / Nationality Scope: Open to students from all over the world (no nationality restrictions)

💲Financial & Logistical Terms

• Travel reimbursements: You cover your ticket from home or university city to Dubna and back; JINR reimburses you upon submission of required documents.

• Visa & health insurance: You initially cover these; JINR reimburses upon submission of required documentation.

• Accommodation: Arranged and fully paid by JINR (for the duration of your stay in Dubna)

• Daily Allowance / Stipend: 2,000 Russian roubles per day, from the funds of the JINR laboratory where the student is hosted.

📚 Eligible Fields of Focus (Scientific Areas)

To be eligible, your study must align with one (or more) of the JINR scientific fields. You will be asked to pick 1 to 3 relevant fields in your application. Below is a breakdown of these fields:

1. Theoretical Physics

   • Mathematical and theoretical modeling of physical phenomena.

   • Emphasis on abstract, foundational approaches which may not always rely on direct experiment.

2. Elementary Particle Physics & Relativistic Nuclear Physics

   • Study of fundamental particles, their interactions, and properties.

   • Investigates the frameworks of particle theory, quantum fields, and relativistic effects.

3. Nuclear Physics

   • Focused on the structure and dynamics of atomic nuclei, nuclear reactions, decay, and collisions.

4. Condensed Matter Physics, Radiation & Radiobiological Research

   • Systems with strong interactions or complex collective behavior.

   • Includes applied research in materials science, biology, medicine, geophysics, and experimental diagnostics.

5. Networking, Computing, Computational Physics

   • High performance computing, grid computing, simulations, numerical modeling.

   • Applying computational methods to physical systems, large-scale simulations, data processing.

6. Engineering & Instrumentation

   • Design and development of experimental detectors, measurement tools, electronics, cryogenics, vacuum systems, superconducting technologies.

   • Often tied to experimental setups, accelerators, detector systems, and instrumentation control.

These are the core fields accepted by JINR’s START Program. Your project must fall within one or more of these domains.

📝 How to Apply

1. Register on the START portal by completing the registration form, providing required documentation, and indicating 1–3 scientific fields of interest.

2. Wait for your registration to be approved. After approval, you’ll receive login credentials to access the student portal.

3. Apply for a session: choose the Winter Session and press “APPLY” in your student account.

4. Selection & Notification: The final selection date is given on the session webpage; check your email and the START portal.

5. If selected, sign the agreement and prepare for your stay in Dubna.

6. During the program, conduct research under supervision, attend seminars/lectures, and submit a final report at the end.

👌🏻 Benefits, Why Apply & Practical Tips

• Hands-on Research Experience: Work on real, advanced projects under expert mentorship.

• Networking & Exposure: Interact with international peers and JINR scientists; gain insights into major research labs.

• Research & Thesis Development: You might identify or refine a topic for your thesis or further studies.

• Financial Support: Travel, visa, insurance reimbursements, accommodation, and a daily stipend.

• Resume/Academic Boost: Participation in a prestigious program like JINR START strengthens your academic portfolio.

ℹ️ Tips for a Strong Application

• Choose your scientific fields carefully and ensure your project interest aligns closely.

• Prepare transcripts, recommendation letters, CV, statement of interest, and proof of status (student year).

• Apply early; ensure all supporting documents and registration are properly submitted.

• After being accepted, keep in touch with your host lab or supervisor and prepare well for your stay in Russia.

• Be aware of timelines, deadlines, visa procedures, and travel arrangements.

🔗 Details & Apply

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