Experimental Physics Summer School

Are you passionate about experimental physics? Do you enjoy solving challenges, developing hands-on skills, and discussing ideas with like-minded students and researchers? If so, we invite you to apply for the Experimental Physics Summer School (EPSS), a four-week residential programme for undergraduates, held at the Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge.

Why apply to the EPSS Programme?

The Experimental Physics Summer School (EPSS) is an intensive technical accelerator programme, designed to give undergraduates a head start in experimental physics beyond a typical undergraduate degree. You will gain hands-on experience with real experimental setups, learning to build optical systems, control instruments, and tackle practical challenges, while developing skills highly relevant for research or technical careers in R&D.

EPSS also offers the chance to experience research in a world-leading environment, collaborate with peers, and train like a physicist at the University of Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory. Through lectures, practical sessions, group projects, and transferable skills training, including scientific communication and critical literature analysis, you will gain a realistic, applied view of experimental physics and a strong foundation for graduate study or future research.

Programme Structure and Topics

You will be based in the newly-built Ray Dolby Centre, home to the Cavendish Laboratory, where you will have access to state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities. You will also benefit from the broader innovation ecosystem of the West Cambridge site, a vibrant hub for scientific discovery and collaboration.

The programme is designed to provide comprehensive training and unique exposure to a wide range of skills to strength your capabilities in experimental research (both technical and non-technical). Key components include:

  • Hands-on practical demonstrations of experimental physics techniques in small groups
  • Introductory training in practical electronics and instrument control
  • Introduction to optical setup building
  • Core researcher skills training, including critical literature reading, scientific communication, and presentation
  • Group research projects, culminating in results presentation

The full programme will be taught in English. Teaching activities will be delivered on weekdays. Full-time commitment is required for admission. Participants must be able to dedicate themselves exclusively to the programme; concurrent work or study is not permitted.

Learning objectives

By the end of the Summer School, you will have:

  • Gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge experimental techniques
  • Enhanced your experimental and analytical skills
  • Built connections with fellow students and academics in physics
  • Prepared for future research or technical careers by experiencing the workflow and skills required in a world-leading experimental environment.

Teaching faculty Core team

Certification

Students will receive a certificate of attendance on successful completion of this programme.

Eligibility

Applications are open to undergraduate students from both the UK and overseas who:

  • Are 18 years or older
  • Are currently enrolled at a higher education institution and will remain enrolled for the duration of the programme.
  • Will have completed at least one year of undergraduate study by July 2026.

Priority will be given to applicants studying Physics. However, applicants from related STEM disciplines with an interest in experimental physics may also apply.

Get in touch

If you cannot find the answer you are looking for in the Frequently Asked Questions, or have any other enquiry about the programme, please contact the team at epss.admin@phy.cam.ac.uk

Course details

  • Duration: 4 weeks (full-time)
  • Format: In-person
  • Location: Ray Dolby Centre, University of Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory
  • Programme Dates: 6 July to 01 August 2026
  • Application Deadlines
    • 07  January 2026: Early-bird written application deadline (discounted fee)
    • 15 February 2026: Main written application deadline
      Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews in February–March 2026.
  • Fees (excl. accommodation): £4,650 (early bird £4,150)

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FAQs

What are the tuition fees?

  • Early-bird fee: £4,150 (for applications submitted by 7 January 2026)
  • Programme fee: £4,650 (excluding accommodation)

Are there any bursaries available?

A small number of bursaries are available to assist with fees and accommodation costs (but excluding travel costs). Applicants wishing to be considered should indicate this in their written application and will be asked to provide an additional short supplementary statement after submission of their written application. We may also ask for references.

What do the tuition fees include?

Tuition fees include:

  • Tuition on all core training activities
  • Social activities as part of the programme (including formal final dinner)
  • Access to digital legacy relevant resources from taught activities
  • A certificate of attendance

Please note that the fees do not include accommodation or travel.

Is it possible to pay in instalments?

No – unfortunately we are unable to accept payment by instalments.

Is accommodation included in the tuition fees?

No – accommodation is not included in the tuition fees.

Please note students are solely responsible for finding and booking their accommodation for the duration of the EPSS. Participants will be able to stay in one the University of Cambridge’s colleges for the duration of the programme.

Am I required to get a visa to attend the EPSS?

Please use the following websites to determine whether you will need a visa to attend:

Please note – Checking whether you need a visa or applying for a visa is your responsibility.

The EPSS qualifies as a ‘short courses’ as its duration is less than 6 months.

For international students requiring a visa, we advise that you to apply for the summer school as early as possible to leave enough time for your visa application process.

What if my visa is refused?

Please let the EPSS team know as soon as possible.

How do I request a visa letter?

Please remember to tick this option when you pay for your tuition fee. There is no charge for requesting the letter. You will receive your EPSS visa letter as a PDF copy via email after you have been accepted and paid for your place in full.

What is the application deadline?

To be eligible for the early-bird fee, please apply by 7  January 2026. Applications for the general fee are due by 15 February 2026.

Is there an application fee?

Yes – there is a £20 non-refundable application fee. This will be deducted from your total fees should you be accepted onto the EPSS.

 

What are the entry requirements?

Applications are open to undergraduate students from both the UK and overseas who:

  1. Are currently enrolled at a higher education institution and will remain enrolled for the duration of the programme.
  2. Will have completed at least one year of undergraduate study by July 2026.

Priority will be given to applicants studying Physics. However, applicants from related STEM disciplines with an interest in experimental physics may also apply.

Am I required to apply to a specific research group?

No – Applicants are not required to specify or apply to any particular research group or topic. The EPSS is a skills training programme, not a research placement.

Do I need to have prior research experience to be eligible?

No – The selection panel will consider your motivation, clarity of expression and readiness to engage with experimental work, rather than prior research experience or technical expertise.

I have made my application. When will I be notified about the outcome?

Candidates who successfully pass the written application stage will be invited for interviews in February to early March 2026. Outcomes will be communicated during March.

I have an offer. When do I need to pay tuition fees by?

Successful applicants will receive a conditional offer, contingent upon payment of the full tuition fee. Payments must be made within 14 days of the offer date to secure your place. If payment is not received within this timeframe, the offer may be withdrawn and offered to a candidate on the waiting list.

About the application process

The application process has two stages:

Stage 1 – Written Application (online submission)

Applicants will be asked to provide the following as part of their online written application. This allows us to understand your motivation for joining the programme and to ensure that the Experimental Physics Summer School (EPSS) is a good fit for your current level of study and experience.

Your written application should be completed by you personally and must include the following components:

  • A Statement of Motivation

Explain why you wish to attend the EPSS and what you hope to gain from the experience. You may wish to discuss how the programme aligns with your academic interests or future plans. We are interested in your curiosity, enthusiasm for experimental work and willingness to learn.

  • A Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A concise CV outlining your educational background, relevant coursework and any scientific, technical or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your engagement with physics or related subjects.

  • An academic transcript

An official transcript or record of grades from your current institution (if you have one)

  • A 2-minute video statement outlining your motivation (content may overlap with your written statement)

This short video of up to 2 minutes is to introduce yourself and explain your motivation for applying to the EPSS. There is no expectation for a formal presentation. A straightforward recording made on a phone or computer is entirely acceptable.

In your video, please make sure to discuss:

    • Why you are interested in experimental physics
    • What you hope to gain from the EPSS programme
    • How the experience might influence your academic or professional path

The video may include similar content to your written statement of motivation but can also expand on ideas or points you were unable to cover in writing. Please ensure all materials are written and recorded in English.

 

Stage 2 – Interview (if shortlisted)

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a short online interview in February–March 2026.