We are passionate about the exciting research work that takes place at the Earlham Institute and are passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become STEMM professionals.
We offer a structured programme of work experience, placements, and development opportunities for varying age groups and education stages.
Work Experience Programme
Year 10-13 Students
Each year, Earlham Institute welcomes up to ten young people (Years 10-13) to take part in a two-week work experience programme, held at the beginning of the summer holidays.
This structured programme is designed to give students the opportunity to work alongside researchers, receive training, and participate in a range of developmental activities aimed at enhancing their skills, knowledge, and future career prospects.
Year 10 Summer Camp
Year 10
Delivered in partnership with other institutes on the Norwich Research Park (NRP) and administered through the John Innes Centre. The annual 2 week Year 10 Science Camp provides an exciting opportunity to experience life in a scientific lab, doing experiments and exploring the work of some of the world's best plant and microbial scientists.
Student applications are made online via Science Camp and are sifted by a panel of NRP partner representatives.
Research STEM Placements
Year 12 Students
The Research STEM Placements scheme is open to students in the first year of a post-16 science, technology, engineering and/or maths (STEM) course. Taking place over 2 weeks, between the end of July and August, this is a project focused placement that will involve real challenges set by our scientists. STEMPOINT administer applications and select candidates according to their selection criteria. This is an excellent way to develop skills and confidence in quantitative and scientific methods. Students can apply online via STEMPOINT.
T Level Industry Placements
Post-16 students
As a signatory to the Technician Commitment, we're pleased to support T Levels as an industry placement host. Placements within universities or research institutes help showcase the world of technicians in academia, research, and innovation settings. They also encourage young people to aspire towards and pursue careers in technical roles.
To find out more, visit the T Levels website. Any placements at the Earlham Institute are organised through our partner providers (University Technology College Norfolk).
International Undergraduate Summer School
Undergraduate / Masters' students
A unique opportunity for undergraduates from around the world to spend eight weeks at the Earlham Institute in collaboration with fellow Norwich Research Park institutes; The Sainsbury Laboratory and the John Innes Centre. One afternoon each week is dedicated to training events that cover activities such as science communication, programming, field studies, presentation skills, and discussions with students from previous years about career development.
Year in Industry Programme
Undergraduate / Masters' students
This programme offers two placements per academic year, providing undergraduate students with an opportunity to develop skills and experience, supporting future PhD applications and career development. Eligible students are those enrolled on a UK undergraduate degree programme with a placement year, or an integrated Masters with industrial placement.
Student placements run from mid-September to end of August, with project selection taking place mid-October.
Sponsored Summer Placements
Undergraduate / Masters' students
A number of schemes exist where grants are available to provide financial support for students interested in gaining research experience. Two examples are the Genetics society summer studentship award and the Sainsbury Undergraduate studentship. Such schemes require an academic sponsor and we are interested in hearing from enthusiastic and committed students on how we could partner to develop an exciting project application.
Please view our Scientific Groups where you can identify a potential supervisor and a research area of interest. To register your interest please contact the training team.