Call for Applications: CNIO Summer Laboratory Training Programme 2026

Application Deadline: March 31, 2026

About the Programme

The Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) is one of Europe’s leading cancer research institutes, committed to excellence in research and the training of future generations of scientists. This summer programme reflects CNIO’s dedication to nurturing young talent and promoting international collaboration in biomedical research.

Applications are now open for the 2026 CNIO Summer Laboratory Training Programme at the Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO; Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas) in Madrid, Spain. This prestigious initiative offers research training opportunities to students of all nationalities who are interested in pursuing a research career in Biomedicine and Life Sciences during the summer period.

Up to four summer training positions will be awarded during 2026 to university students from any country who are studying in Biomedical & Life Sciences or related fields. Selected participants will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in cutting-edge cancer research at one of Europe’s leading biomedical research institutions, working alongside world-class scientists in state-of-the-art laboratories.

The CNIO is dedicated to excellence in cancer research and the training of future scientists. This programme provides an unparalleled introduction to the world of biomedical research, allowing students to experience firsthand the excitement of scientific discovery and the rigour of laboratory work.

Programme Details

• Training Period: 29 June – 21 August 2026 (8 weeks)
• Location: Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
• Number of Positions: Up to 4 students
• Format: Full-time, hands-on laboratory research training
• Language: English (all training and communication will be conducted in English)

Participants will be integrated into active research groups at CNIO, where they will contribute to ongoing projects under the supervision of experienced researchers. The programme is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to cancer research, exposing students to a range of techniques, experimental approaches, and scientific methodologies.

Application Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the programme:

Academic Requirements:

• Have passed at least two-thirds (2/3) of the total credit points (courses or exams) required for a Life Sciences or Biomedicine-related undergraduate degree (in any country)
• Maintain undergraduate student status throughout the entire summer programme (29 June to 21 August 2026)
• Possess an excellent academic record with a Grade Point Average (GPA) above 0.75 (calculated with your GPA as the numerator and the highest possible GPA as the denominator)

Language Requirement:

• Demonstrate a good knowledge of English (sufficient for full participation in laboratory work and scientific discussions)

Availability Requirement:

• Be available from 29 June to 21 August 2026 (8 weeks) to attend the training programme in person at CNIO in Madrid
• Candidates who cannot be at CNIO during this entire period will not be eligible for the programme

Benefits

Selected students will receive comprehensive support, including:

Travel Expenses:

• Coverage of one return ticket from the student’s hometown to Madrid

Meals:

• Subsidized breakfasts and lunches at the CNIO cafeteria throughout the training period

Insurance Coverage:

• Personal accident insurance for the duration of the stay at CNIO
• Citizens from countries not issuing the European Health Card (EHC) will receive private health insurance and repatriation insurance (unless already covered by a valid health insurance policy throughout the summer stay)
• Spanish nationals and citizens from EHC-issuing countries must present their valid European Health Card

Certificate of Completion:

• Upon successful completion of the training programme, CNIO will issue an official certificate indicating the area of training and participation

Fields of Research

Students may be placed in research groups working on various aspects of cancer biology, including but not limited to:

• Molecular oncology
• Cell biology and signalling
• Cancer genetics and epigenetics
• Tumour microenvironment
• Metastasis and invasion
• Cancer therapeutics and drug development
• Immunology and immunotherapy
• Structural biology and biochemistry
• Bioinformatics and computational biology

Application Procedure

The application process involves two stages:

Stage 1: Initial Application

Interested candidates must first submit an online application through the CNIO official website. The initial application requires basic personal and academic information.

Stage 2: Supporting Documents (for shortlisted candidates only)

Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to send the following documents by email to summertraining@cnio.es:

1. Two letters of recommendation from professors or research supervisors who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities and research potential
2. Copy of an official Transcript of Records, Academic Transcript, or Certification stating the number of credits passed and GPA
3. Copy of National Identity Card or Passport
4. Proof of having a valid health insurance (public or private) for the entire summer stay
   • Citizens from countries issuing the European Health Card (EHC), including Spanish nationals, must present this documentation
5. NIE/Visa required for legal stay in Spain (if applicable)

Important Note: It is highly recommended to have these documents prepared in advance, as shortlisted candidates will need to submit them promptly.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Academic excellence (GPA and overall academic record)
• Progress in undergraduate studies (completion of at least 2/3 of required credits)
• Motivation and interest in biomedical research
• Quality of letters of recommendation
• Alignment with CNIO’s research areas

To apply click here