CNIO International Summer Internship Programme

Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Students in their final undergraduate years in the life sciences.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO) in Madrid—one of Europe’s premier oncology research institutions—awards competitive 8-week summer fellowships each year to top-performing biomedical undergraduates from around the world. Selected fellows conduct full-time experimental or computational cancer research inside CNIO’s Molecular Oncology, Structural Biology, Human Cancer Genetics, or Experimental Therapeutics labs.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Students in their final undergraduate years in the life sciences.
2. Note the deadline. Feb – Apr (annual; check the CNIO education page for the current call, which is normally published in the spring) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Academic Transcripts & Credit Proof: Official documentation confirming you have completed at least 80% of your undergraduate degree credits with top-decile grades.; Curriculum Vitae: Detailed summary of prior laboratory training, molecular cloning, cell culture, or bioinformatics experience.; Lab Selection & Motivation: Ranking of preferred CNIO laboratories and a concise motivation statement..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Strict GPA & Credit Completion Ranking → Scientific Review by CNIO Programme Directors & Host Lab PIs → Final Selection in May.

Profile of past winners

Final-year Bachelor’s students in biochemistry, molecular biology, or bioinformatics with a GPA above 3.7/4.0 and previous hands-on wet-lab training.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
4. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
5. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for CNIO International Summer Internship Programme?

Students in their final undergraduate years in the life sciences.

What does CNIO International Summer Internship Programme cover?

Covers travel, meals during working hours, insurance and some activities

When is the deadline for CNIO International Summer Internship Programme?

Feb – Apr (annual; check the CNIO education page for the current call, which is normally published in the spring) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with CNIO International Summer Internship Programme?

Host countries: Spain.

What documents do I need for CNIO International Summer Internship Programme?

Academic Transcripts & Credit Proof: Official documentation confirming you have completed at least 80% of your undergraduate degree credits with top-decile grades.; Curriculum Vitae: Detailed summary of prior laboratory training, molecular cloning, cell culture, or bioinformatics experience.; Lab Selection & Motivation: Ranking of preferred CNIO laboratories and a concise motivation statement..

How are applicants selected for CNIO International Summer Internship Programme?

Strict GPA & Credit Completion Ranking → Scientific Review by CNIO Programme Directors & Host Lab PIs → Final Selection in May.

How much work is the CNIO International Summer Internship Programme application?

Very High: Online CNIO Portal Form + CV + Official Transcript with GPA Calculation + Lab Choices (up to 3 CNIO Units)