Students passionate about physics, astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, and scientific research now have an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world’s most prestigious scientific institutions. The A&A Excursion to CERN 2027 is a fully funded international academic program that will bring 15 outstanding students from around the world to the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland, for an immersive week of learning, discovery, and hands-on scientific exploration.

Taking place from 13 to 19 June 2027, the program is designed for ambitious high school and undergraduate students who want to deepen their understanding of the universe, from the smallest elementary particles to the largest cosmic structures.

Participants will engage directly with researchers, visit world-famous scientific facilities, take part in workshops, conduct data analysis, and collaborate on research projects in an environment that has shaped some of the most important discoveries in modern physics.

Application Deadline

Deadline: 27 December 2026

All applications must be submitted online before 23:59 Central European Time (CET) on 27 December 2026.

About the A&A Excursion to CERN 2027

The A&A Excursion to CERN is a specialized educational program focused on astroparticle physics and cosmology. While CERN is globally known for hosting the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the program highlights a broader scientific mission that includes understanding:

• Dark matter
• Antimatter
• Cosmic rays
• Neutrinos
• The early universe
• Cosmology
• Nuclear astrophysics
• Fundamental particles and forces

The initiative follows the model of CERN’s established educational programs while placing a stronger emphasis on astronomy and astrophysics.

Throughout the week, students will engage with scientific concepts that connect particle physics to some of the biggest unanswered questions about the universe.

Program Overview

Location

CERN, Geneva, Switzerland

Program Dates

13–19 June 2027

Number of Participants

15 students worldwide

Language

English

Accommodation

CERN Hostel, Meyrin Campus

Funding

Fully Funded

Organizer

A&A Academic Office, Germany

What Makes This Program Unique?

Unlike traditional science camps or short courses, the excursion provides direct exposure to active scientific research conducted at one of the world’s leading research institutions.

Participants will:

• Learn from scientists and engineers working at CERN
• Visit cutting-edge facilities and experiments
• Participate in practical workshops
• Build and operate scientific equipment
• Analyze real scientific data
• Conduct collaborative research projects
• Network with international peers who share similar academic interests

The program serves as an ideal stepping stone for students considering future studies and careers in physics, astronomy, engineering, computer science, and scientific research.

Program Components

1. Advanced Scientific Lectures

Students will attend daily lectures specifically designed for advanced secondary school and early university-level learners.

Lecture topics include:

• The Standard Model of Particle Physics
• Cosmic Rays
• Dark Matter
• Antimatter
• Cosmology
• The Early Universe
• Particle Detection Methods
• Nuclear Astrophysics
• Data Analysis in Large Scientific Experiments

No previous background in particle physics is required, making the program accessible to motivated learners with strong foundational science knowledge.

2. Guided Visits to CERN Facilities

Participants will gain rare access to several important CERN facilities and experiments.

The Antimatter Factory

Students will visit the Antiproton Decelerator and the ELENA ring, where antimatter particles are produced and studied.

Researchers here investigate:

• The behavior of antimatter
• Antihydrogen formation
• Fundamental symmetries of nature
• The mystery of why matter dominates the universe

Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) Operations

Participants will explore the control center for the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, a powerful experiment operating aboard the International Space Station.

Topics include:

• Cosmic rays
• Space-based particle detection
• Dark matter searches
• Astroparticle physics

CERN Data Centre

Students will learn how immense amounts of scientific data are processed and stored.

The visit provides insights into:

• Scientific computing
• Big data infrastructure
• International computing grids
• Data analysis workflows

CLOUD Experiment

The CLOUD experiment demonstrates how particle physics interacts with atmospheric science.

Researchers investigate:

• Cosmic rays
• Aerosol formation
• Cloud development
• Climate-related phenomena

Large Hadron Collider Experiments

Depending on operational schedules and access availability, students may visit one of the major LHC experiments or associated control rooms.

These experiments recreate conditions similar to those that existed shortly after the Big Bang.

CERN Science Gateway

Students will spend time at CERN’s modern science education facility, featuring:

• Interactive exhibitions
• Educational laboratories
• Workshop spaces
• Scientific demonstrations

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

A major strength of the program is its emphasis on experiential learning.

Participants will not simply attend lectures. They will actively engage in scientific practice.

Detector Workshop

Students will:

• Build a simple particle detector
• Learn particle detection principles
• Collect and interpret experimental observations

Data Analysis Activities

Participants will work with:

• Real scientific datasets
• Astroparticle research data
• Computational analysis techniques
• Scientific interpretation methods

These activities provide practical skills commonly used by working scientists.

Meet Scientists and Researchers

One of the most valuable aspects of the excursion is the interaction with professionals at all career stages.

Students will participate in discussions with:

• Physicists
• Engineers
• Researchers
• Doctoral students
• Laboratory staff

Topics include:

• Research careers
• University pathways
• Graduate education
• International scientific collaborations
• Daily life at CERN

These conversations offer unique career guidance and inspiration for aspiring scientists.

Group Research Project

Throughout the week, participants work in small teams on a scientific research question.

The project experience includes:

1. Problem identification
2. Data gathering and analysis
3. Team collaboration
4. Scientific discussion
5. Presentation of findings

On the final day, students present their results to fellow participants and program staff.

This exercise helps strengthen:

• Critical thinking
• Scientific communication
• Research methodology
• Teamwork skills

Scientific Topics Covered

The curriculum explores a wide range of modern scientific themes:

Particle Physics

• Standard Model
• Fundamental particles
• Forces of nature
• Current limitations of theory

Cosmology

• The Big Bang
• Evolution of the universe
• Cosmic microwave background
• Formation of early structures

Dark Matter Research

• Astronomical evidence
• Detection strategies
• Experimental searches
• Current scientific challenges

Antimatter Studies

• Matter-antimatter asymmetry
• Antihydrogen experiments
• Fundamental questions in physics

Cosmic Rays

• Origins of cosmic particles
• Detection techniques
• Space-based observations

Neutrino Science

• Neutrino properties
• Multi-messenger astronomy
• Experimental techniques

Nuclear Astrophysics

• Formation of chemical elements
• Stellar processes
• Cosmic nucleosynthesis

Scientific Computing

• Data analysis
• Research computing
• International scientific collaboration

Program Schedule

Sunday, 13 June 2027

• Arrival
• Hostel check-in
• Orientation
• Welcome dinner

Monday, 14 June 2027

• Introduction to CERN
• Standard Model lectures
• Campus tour
• Science Gateway visit

Tuesday, 15 June 2027

• Cosmic ray lectures
• AMS Control Centre visit
• Detector workshop

Wednesday, 16 June 2027

• Antimatter Factory visit
• Dark matter lecture
• Guided afternoon in Geneva

Thursday, 17 June 2027

• Cosmology lecture
• CERN Data Centre visit
• CLOUD experiment visit
• Meeting researchers

Friday, 18 June 2027

• Data analysis workshop
• Research projects
• Results presentations
• Closing dinner

Saturday, 19 June 2027

• Feedback session
• Departure

Financial Support and Benefits

The program covers almost all participation costs.

What Is Covered?

Accommodation

• Six nights at the CERN Hostel

Meals

• All meals throughout the program

Local Transportation

• Transport within Geneva
• Transportation between program locations

Educational Activities

• Lectures
• Workshops
• Laboratory visits
• Materials

Travel Grant

• Up to USD 1,250
• Reimbursed after participation against receipts
• Travel booking support available from the organizers

Costs Participants Must Cover

The following expenses are not covered:

• Visa fees
• Passport and travel document costs
• Personal expenses
• Health insurance
• Optional travel insurance

Participants must possess health insurance valid in Switzerland.

Reserved Places for A&A Masterclass Alumni

Five of the fifteen available places are reserved for students who have successfully completed the A&A Masterclass and obtained a certificate.

However:

• Alumni apply through the same application process.
• They are evaluated under the same criteria.
• They may compete for both reserved and general places.
• Unfilled reserved places become available to other applicants.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

Mandatory Documents

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Motivation Letter
3. Latest Academic Transcript

Optional Documents

• Olympiad certificates
• Competition certificates
• Course certificates
• Research internship certificates

Supporting documents should be combined into one PDF where applicable.

Writing the Motivation Letter

The motivation letter should be one to two pages long and written in English.

Applicants are encouraged to discuss:

• Their interest in physics and astronomy
• Research experiences
• Independent learning activities
• Scientific projects
• Competitions and Olympiads
• Questions that inspire their curiosity
• What they hope to gain from the CERN experience

Selection committees typically value authenticity and specificity more than extensive lists of achievements.

Click here to apply.

Selection Process

Stage 1: Online Application

Submit all required documents before:

27 December 2026

Stage 2: Interview

Shortlisted applicants will participate in a 20-minute online interview in early January 2027.

Topics include:

• Academic interests
• Research experiences
• Motivation
• Future goals

Stage 3: Final Decision

Applicants will be notified in mid-January 2027.

Selected participants must confirm their places within two weeks.

Stage 4: Preparation

Between February and May 2027, participants receive:

• Travel information
• Visa support letters
• Program materials
• Detailed schedules

Practical Information

Accommodation

Participants stay at CERN Hostel near lecture venues and dining facilities.

Meals

Dietary requirements can be accommodated when communicated in advance.

Travel

Geneva Airport and Geneva Railway Station provide convenient access to CERN via public transportation.

Visa Support

Selected participants requiring visas receive official invitation letters.

Supervision

Program staff accompany participants throughout the week, including support for participants under 18 years old.

Certificate

Participants who complete the entire program receive a certificate of participation.

For similar opportunities, see here.

Conclusion

The Fully Funded A&A Excursion to CERN 2027 represents a rare and prestigious opportunity for aspiring scientists from around the world to immerse themselves in one of the most influential research environments on Earth. Combining advanced lectures, laboratory visits, practical workshops, research projects, and direct interaction with leading scientists, the program offers participants an unparalleled introduction to modern physics, cosmology, and astrophysics.

For students eager to explore dark matter, antimatter, cosmic rays, the origins of the universe, and the future of scientific discovery, this experience provides not only world-class academic exposure but also the chance to become part of an international community of young researchers. With comprehensive funding, substantial travel support, and access to CERN’s renowned facilities, the excursion stands out as one of the most exciting educational opportunities available to motivated STEM students worldwide.

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