The IARC Summer School 2025 in Lyon, France, provides training in epidemiology, cancer prevention, and early detection. Sponsored by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the program targets students and professionals from low- and middle-income countries interested in cancer research. The IARC Summer School is designed for researchers and health professionals involved in cancer prevention and cancer control. Tailored to spread international collaboration, the IARC Summer School offers a unique multicultural and multidisciplinary learning environment, to expand your network and enable interactions with IARC faculty and invited international experts, as well as among participants.
Two modules, as per the Modules at a Glance section, are offered (participant can attend only one module) and are structured to offer a combination of autonomous learning and face-to-face training. The IARC Summer School consists of 2 to 4 weeks of online training and then 5 days of in-person training in France. Application deadline: Usually early spring (specific date pending official announcement).
There are two modules and participants can apply in ONE Module only.
- Introduction to Cancer Epidemiology: This course will focus on the practical application of epidemiological principles and methods to various cancer control activities, mainly targeting the search for the causes of cancer.
- Implementing Cancer Prevention and Early Detection: This course will provide a broad perspective on principles, concepts, issues, and practices of cancer prevention, early detection, and program implementation.
- Targeted People
- People from Cancer registry staff, epidemiologists, statisticians, physicians, oncologists, public health specialists, postgraduate students, and others with a direct interest in working in cancer epidemiology, cancer registration, and activities related to cancer control can apply.
University/Institution:
- Institution Name: International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
- Location: Lyon, France
- Ranking: Highly regarded for cancer research under WHO
- Program: Summer School in Epidemiology
- Duration: Approximately 3 weeks in June
Study Areas:
- Cancer epidemiology
- Cancer prevention and control
- Early cancer detection methods
Topics Covered
- Module Introduction to Cancer Epidemiology:
- The practical application of epidemiological principles and methods to various cancer control activities.
- The search for causes of cancer.
- The implementation and evaluation of control programs.
- Module on Implementing Cancer Prevention and Early Detection:
- Cancer Control Overview
- Cancer risk factors and prevention strategies/approaches
- Principles and implementation of screening programs
IARC Summer School Program Benefit:
- Selected Participants from Low-income, or Lower Middle-income countries will receive the:
- Travel Expenses
- Living Expenses
- Fee Waiver
- Participants from Middle-Income Countries will receive: Living Expenses Only.
- Access to the dedicated online space of the IARC Summer School, and the IARC Learning portal and resources.
- Welcome reception and coffee breaks and during the 5 days of training at IARC.
Benefits not Included:
- Registration fee
Program Eligibilities:
- Participants can attend only one module.
- Familiarize yourself with the topics and learning objectives of your module of interest.
- Carefully consider the dates and the time commitment needed to complete your module of interest. Participants are required to attend all scheduled activities.
- IARC Scholarships are available to support applicants working in and affiliated to an institution based in a low-income, lower-middle-income or upper-middle-income country. Please check the World Bank Country Classification
- 57-60 hours of training (depending on the chosen module) and certificate of completion of the following components:
- Demonstrated interest in cancer research and epidemiology
- Applicants from HIC are not eligible for IARC Scholarships and will have to pay the registration fee at the time of confirmation of their selection. (The registration fee (€1800)
- 57-60 hours of training (depending on the chosen module) and certificate of completion of the following components:
- Participation in the online part (2 to 4 weeks): access to self-paced learning resources, quiz, pre-course assignments, initiation of a group work assignment, attendance of scheduled live sessions with faculty members, facilitators and other participants.
- Participation in the face-to-face part (5 days): in-person classes, group work preparation, practical activities, site visit (in the Prevention module), social activities, etc.
What equipment will I need to participate in the IARC Summer School?
- A stable Internet connection.
- A desktop computer or laptop with Internet connectivity and video camera and microphone functionality.
- A laptop during the face-to-face classes time.
- Ensure that you have the necessary travel documents and check Visa requirements to travel to Lyon, France.
Application Process:
- Complete and submit the online application on the IARC Summer School portal.
- Upload required documents.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Tips for Successful Application:
- Highlight relevant experience in cancer research or public health.
- Emphasize motivation to work in cancer prevention, especially in your home country.
- Provide detailed and well-articulated references.
5 days living expenses approximate
For a 5-day stay in Lyon, France, here’s an approximate breakdown of daily expenses for an international student:
- Accommodation: €50-€80 per night for a budget hotel or hostel (~€250-€400 for 5 days)
- Meals: €15-€25 per day for budget meals (~€75-€125 for 5 days)
- Local Transportation: €2 per ride or €15-€20 for a weekly pass (~€10-€20 for 5 days)
- Miscellaneous (internet, minor personal expenses): €5-€10 per day (~€25-€50)
- Total Estimated Cost for 5 Days: €360-€595
Why Choose This Program?
The IARC Summer School offers a unique opportunity to study with global experts, gain hands-on experience in cancer research, and build an international professional network in public health and epidemiology.
FAQs
- Who can apply? Open to international health professionals, with priority for low-resource countries.
- Are scholarships available? Yes, for select participants based on resource need.
- What topics are covered? Epidemiology, cancer prevention, and screening.
- What are the language requirements? Proficiency in English.
- How many modules can I attend? Participants typically choose one module.
Official Link:
For more information and to apply, visit the IARC Summer School website.