Novartis and University of Basel Next Generation Scientist Program 2027

Applications are open for the Novartis and University of Basel Next Generation Scientist Program 2027, an international research internship designed for talented and motivated scientists from low and middle income countries. The programme provides an opportunity for postgraduate students in science and medicine to gain practical research experience, develop professional skills, and learn from experts at one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical research organisations.

The three month programme will run from June 1 to August 31, 2027, at the Novartis research site in Basel, Switzerland. Selected participants will work under the guidance of experienced Novartis mentors on a scientific, clinical research or global health project agreed upon by the intern and the supervising team.

The programme aims to strengthen the scientific and professional development of emerging researchers while helping them acquire knowledge and expertise that can be applied in their home institutions. In addition to research activities, participants will take part in a leadership development programme intended to support their growth as future scientific leaders.

About the Next Generation Scientist Program

The Next Generation Scientist Program is a research and professional development initiative offered by Novartis in collaboration with the University of Basel. It seeks to create opportunities for emerging scientists from low and middle income countries to gain exposure to advanced scientific methods, research environments and international expertise.

During the internship, selected participants will contribute to a jointly agreed research project and receive guidance from experienced mentors. The programme combines practical scientific work with leadership development, allowing participants to strengthen their technical knowledge while building skills that support long term professional growth.

By connecting researchers with specialists working at the forefront of pharmaceutical science and global health, the programme also encourages the transfer of knowledge and research expertise to participants’ home institutions.

Opportunity Benefits

Selected participants can expect the following benefits:

• Monthly stipend: Novartis provides a monthly stipend to help cover basic living expenses and incidental costs during the internship.

• Practical research experience: Participants work on an agreed scientific, clinical research or global health project.

• Expert mentorship: Interns receive guidance from experienced Novartis researchers and professionals.

• Advanced scientific exposure: Participants gain exposure to modern research methodologies and specialists in their fields.

• Leadership development: The programme includes activities designed to strengthen leadership and professional skills.

• International research experience: Participants gain experience working in an international research environment at the Novartis site in Basel, Switzerland.

• Knowledge transfer: The programme encourages participants to apply the knowledge and expertise gained during the internship in their home institutions.

Research Areas

The programme considers research interests across a broad range of therapeutic and functional areas.

Therapeutic areas include:

• Cardiovascular diseases.

• Oncology, including breast and prostate cancer.

• Infectious diseases, including malaria, dengue, cryptosporidiosis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease and leprosy.

• Sickle cell disease.

Functional areas include:

• Drug discovery and clinical research.

• Clinical development and clinical operations.

• Translational science.

• Bioinformatics, data analytics and artificial intelligence.

• Patient engagement and advocacy.

• Global health, including scientific publications and community health initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be currently enrolled at a university as a Master of Science, Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Medicine student.

• Be studying in a country classified as low or middle income within the programme’s geographical scope.

• Have advanced verbal and written English communication skills.

• Be willing and able to participate actively in all programme activities and training sessions.

• Demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.

• Possess good time management and organisational skills.

Applicants should also consider whether their academic interests align with the programme’s therapeutic, scientific or functional research areas.

How to Apply

1. Review the official programme details. Visit the Novartis careers page and read the full description of the Next Generation Scientist Program 2027.
2. Check your eligibility. Confirm that you are enrolled in an eligible Master of Science, Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Medicine programme in a low or middle income country.
3. Review the research areas. Identify the therapeutic or functional areas that best match your academic background and research interests.
4. Complete the online application. Use the application link on the official Novartis careers page and provide the information requested.
5. Submit before the deadline. Ensure that your application is completed and submitted by November 15, 2026.