The Russia JINR START Winter Program 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for international students in science, engineering, and IT to gain research experience at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) in Dubna, Russia. If interested in international research internships, this guide details the most relevant information, from application steps to benefits and tips for success.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
The JINR START (Student Advanced Research Training) Winter Program offers a fully funded 6–8 week research internship at JINR, Russia.
- Host Country: Russia
- Institution: Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna
- Program Dates: Onsite in Dubna, from February 15, 2026, for 6–8 weeks
- Application Deadline: October 30, 2025
- Application Fee: None
- English Test Requirement: IELTS/TOEFL not required.
University/Institution Details
JINR is a leading international research center founded to advance nuclear sciences, bringing together experts and students from across the world. Located in Dubna, Moscow Region, it is home to advanced research facilities and collaborations in nuclear physics, theoretical physics, information technology, and engineering.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
Participants can join programs and advanced-level research in fields such as:
- Physics (Nuclear, Theoretical, Experimental)
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electronic, Applied)
- Information Technology & Computer Science
- Mathematics and Data Science.
Russia JINR START Winter Program Benefits
The JINR START Winter Program 2026 covers:
- Round-trip air travel (reimbursed after submission of required paperwork)
- Visa costs (reimbursed)
- Health insurance
- Free on-campus accommodation
- Daily living allowance of 2000 Russian rubles (approx. $20–$25 USD per day)
- Supervision by JINR’s expert team
- Seminar and workshop access
- Networking and mentoring.
Benefits Not Included
- Personal expenses and non-essential purchases
- Recreational travel or extra sightseeing
- Food/meals not provided by the host (living allowance helps cover these)
- Travel insurance beyond the program period.
Eligibility Criteria for the Russia JINR START Winter Program
Applicants must:
- Open to students worldwide.
- Must specialize in science, engineering, or IT.
- Eligible levels: 3rd–4th year undergraduates, Master’s students, or 1st-year PhD students.
- Must not have participated in the START (JINR Summer Student) Programme before.
- Be currently enrolled at a recognized higher education institution.
Required Documents for the Application
Prepare the following documents:
- Completed online application
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Official academic transcripts
- Proof of current enrollment in degree program
- Copy of passport (or valid ID)
- Motivational statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation (preferable from academic supervisors/advisors)
- Any additional certificates, awards, or research work relevant to your field.
Russia JINR START Winter Program Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Ensure your field of study matches a JINR scientific field.
- Confirm your academic level (3rd/4th year undergraduate, Master’s, or 1st-year PhD).
- Register on the JINR website and upload required documents.
- Choose 1–3 scientific fields related to your studies.
- Wait for approval and login details via email.
- Log in as a student, select your preferred Session, and apply.
- Wait for selection results (check your email regularly).
Tips for a Successful Application
- Carefully customize your motivational letter to show passion for research, collaboration, and STEM.
- Highlight prior research, internships, or hands-on lab experience.
- Ensure all documents (especially transcripts and recommendation letters) are translated to English or Russian if required.
- Apply before the deadline and triple-check your application for completeness.
- Select project areas matching your expertise.
- Stay updated on your email and check for instructions regularly.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
- Accommodation: Covered by JINR (on-campus housing; no cost).
- Daily Allowance: 2000 RUB/day ≈ $24 USD; monthly ≈ $700–$750 USD (enough for food and basic needs in Dubna).
- Personal Expenses: $50–$100/month (depends on lifestyle).
- Transportation: Local public transport is subsidized or minimal.
- Total Estimated Expenses: $750–$850/month can cover living comfortably in Dubna as an international student.
Why Choose This Scholarship? (5+ Reasons)
- Fully Funded: Covers all main expenses, enabling talented students to focus on research.
- World-Class Facilities: Direct research experience at a prominent institute with leading facilities and international projects.
- Global Networking: Collaboration with students and professionals from diverse backgrounds.
- Career Boost: Opportunity to choose thesis topics, find mentors, and pave the way for research careers.
- No IELTS/TOEFL Required: Accessible for non-native English speakers; less application hassle.
- Hands-on Research Experience: Real participation in frontline nuclear, physics, engineering, and IT projects.
- Exposure to Russian Science and Culture: A unique cultural and academic exchange in a world-renowned environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Scholarships
Official Link:
This competitive program could be a launchpad for an international STEM career. Prepare thoroughly and submit the best application before October 30, 2025.