Research Placements Programmes

Applications for Summer 2027 are now open!

Research Placements are engaging, real-life workplace experiences, where talented S5 learners are placed at the heart of a UK host organisation. They are a fantastic opportunity for learners to apply skills and knowledge learned at school while providing a meaningful contribution to the work of researchers and industry professionals.

SSERC offers two Research Placement Programmes - the  Learner Research Placement Programme, funded by Ocean Winds and the STEM Research Placements programme, provided by STEM Learning.

Aimed at S5 learners from disadvantaged, rural or ethnic minority backgrounds, both Research Placement Programmes provide a 2-week collaboration over the summer with a STEM-related knowledge expert on a live research question or area of development. Learners have the opportunity to participate in online training and induction sessions to prepare them for their placement, have the support of their mentor during the placement and produce a scientific / technical report and poster post placement to document the outcomes of their project.

Participants can also work towards a STEM 7 Leader Award, part of the Young STEM Leader Programme, whilst undertaking their placement.

• Applications for Research Placements are open October to March each year
• Placements take place over 2 weeks in July and August.
• Culminates with a Celebration Event in September where learners showcase their posters and receive their Research Placement Award.

The application process for both the Learner Research Placement Programme and STEM Research Placements programme Programme is the same - learners select their eligibility criteria during the application process.