The Next Generation Scientist Program is an intensive internship program for talented and motivated research scientists from low- and middle-income countries. The 3-month program (01 June to 31 August 2026), hosted at our research site in Basel, Switzerland, is designed to foster both their scientific and professional development and consists of classroom sessions, group work assignments and active individual contribution. Guided by Novartis mentors, the interns work on a jointly agreed upon, pre-competitive scientific or clinical research project. Additionally, they learn about the pharmaceutical drug discovery and development process as well as participate in a leadership development program designed to enhance decision-making and communication skills.
The internship program is run jointly by Novartis and the University of Basel.The Next Generation Scientist Program aims to build scientific and leadership capability in low- and middle-income countries by enhancing the skills of local scientists and by facilitating the knowledge transfer to their wider scientific communities upon their return home. An internship is possible in any of the broad range of therapeutic areas in which Novartis is involved; scientists with background and interest in malaria, dengue, cryptosporidiosis, visceral leishmaniasis, leprosy, sickle cell disease or Chagas disease are encouraged to apply.
Benefits
Research infrastructure and training:
All necessary equipment, training and operational needs (e.g computers, supplies and reagents) will be provided to support investigation of a jointly agreed upon, pre-ompetitive (non-proprietary) scientific question or challenge.
Travel, accommodation & visa: Novartis will provide
Round-trip economy class airfare
Student accommodation for the duration of the project
Application for educational visas to the Swiss authorities on behalf of the selected participants
Stipend and health insurance: Novartis will provide health insurance and a monthly stipend to cover incidentals and basic living expenses
Requirements
Enrolled at university as MSc, PhD or MD student in a geography of scope (low- and middle-income country)
Preferred field of studies: Natural and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medicine, and related fields of study
Research background in malaria, dengue, cryptosporidiosis, visceral leishmaniasis, leprosy, sickle cell disease or Chagas disease preferred
Active participation in all program and training activities expected
Good verbal and written English communication skills
Ability to work independently and in groups
Time management and good organizational skills
Selection Process
Duration and dates: 12-week program from 01 June to 31 August 2026; onsite Basel Campus, Switzerland
Method of Application
Click Here to Apply
Please make sure to add the following documents to your application, combined in one PDF file:• CV or résumé• Letter of recommendation/support from a faculty member
• Letter of motivation how the program will benefit you• Research question of interest
• Current MSc or PhD research proposal
• Academic transcripts/grade reports
Application Deadline: October 31, 2025.