W I S E R

The Women in Science and Engineering Research program is a dedicated opportunity for female Bachelor students that are eager to gain hands-on research experience within one of the School’s laboratories over summer.

Designed to support and encourage female students in their professional development, WISER facilitates early exposure to research environments while offering mentoring opportunities to get valuable insight into future pathways in science and engineering.

Through WISER, EPFL aims to address persistent structural imbalances in STEM. Women remain underrepresented across many scientific research fields and academic career paths, and factors such as visibility, role models, networks, and confidence can shape whether students see research as a path for themselves. By creating this supportive initiative, EPFL helps make that path more visible and accessible.

Open to 2nd and 3rd year female Bachelor students, the program provides an immersive research experience with the aim to strengthen academic profiles by developing confidence, communication and research skills. Participants will gain practical experience, learn to navigate challenges in STEM environments, and build connections with peers and mentors.

Key information at a glance

A selective program with about ten female EPFL participants
Eight weeks of research experience during the summer period (June to September)
A scholarship of CHF 4,000 for selected participants
A mentoring scheme to receive guidance from PhD students
Workshops on transversal and professional skills
A final presentation of research work during a Research Symposium
An official certificate of program completion conferred with the Bachelor’s degree

Program experience

Participants spend eight weeks in an EPFL research group aligned with their interests. In addition to laboratory exploration, the program includes a personal mentoring scheme, exciting workshops and participation in a Research Symposium. Together, these complementary components provide the knowledge, skills, guidance, and network needed to thrive in future professional environments. Participants also join a cohort of peers who share a strong interest in scientific research and have the opportunity to connect with students from other EPFL programs.