Novartis Next Generation Scientist Program — Paid Internship & Research Training in Switzerland
The Novartis Next Generation Scientist (NGS) Internship 2026 is a prestigious 3-month international research program hosted in Basel, Switzerland, and jointly organized by Novartis and the University of Basel. This initiative is designed for talented MSc, PhD, and MD students from low- and middle-income countries who are eager to advance their scientific and leadership capabilities in world-class research settings.
Running from 1 June to 31 August 2026, the program immerses selected scientists in cutting-edge pharmaceutical and clinical research while building leadership and communication skills through mentorship, seminars, and applied projects. This fully funded internship is one of the most competitive global opportunities for young researchers seeking international exposure and collaborative experience in biomedical sciences.
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About the Novartis Next Generation Scientist Program
The Next Generation Scientist (NGS) Program was launched by Novartis to empower emerging researchers from developing regions by giving them direct access to high-level research environments and mentorship. The program focuses on knowledge transfer, research collaboration, and leadership development in areas of high global health relevance, such as malaria, sickle cell disease, and other neglected tropical diseases.
Interns are hosted at the Novartis Campus in Basel, where they are paired with Novartis mentors and work on mutually defined, non-proprietary (pre-competitive) research questions. Alongside laboratory work, participants engage in seminars and workshops covering drug discovery, data analytics, and innovation leadership.
Programme Overview
- Duration: 3 months (1 June – 31 August 2026)
- Location: Novartis Campus, Basel, Switzerland
- Partners: Novartis & University of Basel
- Funding Type: Fully Funded Internship
- Eligible Regions: Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)
This program combines hands-on research experience with professional development in a multicultural scientific community, helping participants enhance their technical, analytical, and leadership abilities.
Aim and Benefits of the Novartis Next Generation Scientist Internship
What Interns Receive
- Research Infrastructure & Training: Full access to Novartis laboratories, equipment, reagents, and computing facilities to conduct an agreed-upon scientific project.
- Mentorship: Supervision and guidance by senior Novartis researchers throughout the internship period.
- Professional Development: Training sessions in research ethics, communication, drug discovery processes, and leadership skills.
Financial and Logistical Support
This combination of financial, academic, and personal support makes the NGS Internship one of the most rewarding and accessible global scientific programs for researchers from developing countries.
Eligibility Criteria — Who Can Apply
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for the Next Generation Scientist Program 2026:
- Currently enrolled as an MSc, PhD, or MD student at a university in a low- or middle-income country.
- Studying in fields such as Natural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medicine, or other related disciplines.
- Research background or interest in areas such as:
- Malaria
- Dengue
- Cryptosporidiosis
- Visceral Leishmaniasis
- Leprosy
- Sickle Cell Disease
- Chagas Disease
- Strong written and spoken English communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Excellent time management and organizational skills.
Program Structure — What to Expect
1. Scientific Research Project
Each intern works on a jointly agreed pre-competitive scientific or clinical research topic. Past projects have included molecular drug screening, pharmacokinetic modeling, and infectious disease analysis. Results are often shared with home institutions to promote continued collaboration.
2. Professional Development Workshops
Participants attend short courses on:
- Drug discovery and development processes
- Data science and bioinformatics
- Ethics in research and global health
- Scientific writing and publishing
3. Leadership & Communication Training
Novartis includes a structured leadership module aimed at improving critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. Interns also present their research progress in seminars and final symposiums.
Application Requirements — Documents to Prepare
Applicants must compile the following documents into a single PDF file before submission:
- 📄 Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé (max. 2 pages).
- 🧑🏫 Letter of Recommendation or support from a faculty member at your home institution.
- 📝 Motivation Letter describing how this program will benefit your academic and professional development.
- 🔬 Research Question or Proposal outlining your specific interest area.
- 🎓 Current MSc or PhD Research Proposal (summary or full version if available).
- 📚 Academic Transcripts or grade reports for your current degree.
Note: All documents must be in English and combined into one PDF before uploading to the Novartis application system.
Application Process — How to Apply
To apply for the Next Generation Scientist Internship 2026, follow these steps:
- Visit the official Novartis career portal at www.novartis.com.
- Navigate to the “Careers” or “Research Internships” section.
- Search for Next Generation Scientist Program 2026.
- Click “Apply Now” and fill out the online application form.
- Upload your combined PDF document (CV, motivation letter, research proposal, recommendation, and transcripts).
- Submit before the official deadline: 31 October 2025.
Important: Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Selection Process and Interview
- Shortlisting: Based on academic performance, motivation, and research relevance.
- Interviews: Conducted virtually by Novartis scientists and program coordinators.
- Final Selection: Successful applicants will receive an official offer letter and visa assistance by early 2026.
Programme Timeline
- Application Deadline: 31 October 2025
- Interviews & Selection: January–February 2026
- Visa & Logistics Arrangements: March–May 2026
- Internship Duration: 1 June – 31 August 2026 (12 weeks)
- Location: Basel Campus, Switzerland
Why You Should Apply
- Gain hands-on experience at a global pharmaceutical innovation hub.
- Work alongside world-class scientists in diverse therapeutic areas.
- Build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills for research and academia.
- Network with global peers and mentors to expand future research collaborations.
- Return home with enhanced scientific skills to contribute to your local institution or country’s research development.
Useful Links
- Novartis Official Website
- University of Basel
- Wikihii.co.za — Scholarships & Internships Portal
- Jobs Connect ZA — Internship Alerts on WhatsApp
Conclusion
The Novartis Next Generation Scientist Internship 2026 is more than just an internship — it’s a life-changing opportunity to conduct impactful research, grow professionally, and contribute to global health solutions. With world-class mentorship, a collaborative learning environment, and complete financial support, this program represents a rare chance for young scientists from developing regions to build world-class research careers.
If you are passionate about biomedical innovation, eager to grow your scientific expertise, and ready to make a difference in your community — apply before 31 October 2025.
Stay informed about this and other fully funded internships by joining Jobs Connect ZA and visiting Wikihii.co.za for the latest updates.
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