The PSI Start Research Internship is an annual undergraduate research placement run by Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics. Selected summer-school applicants work with Perimeter researchers on theoretical-physics projects in Waterloo, Canada, while participating in the Institute’s seminars and research community. The 2026 placement is closed, and applications for summer 2027 are due to open near the end of 2026.
Benefits & funding
- Interns are paid through a Research Award prorated to the length of their in-person stay.
- The program supports round-trip economy airfare and ground transportation.
- Interns receive help arranging housing at a group rate and meal credit at Perimeter’s Black Hole Bistro, excluding weekends and holidays.
- There is no application or attendance fee.
Eligibility
- Applicants must intend to begin a graduate program in theoretical physics in 2027 or later for the 2026 cycle.
- Before the program begins, applicants need knowledge of classical mechanics and quantum mechanics; the FAQ also identifies linear algebra familiarity as expected preparation.
- Students worldwide who meet the academic criteria may apply, with no stated nationality or residency restriction.
- The internship requires at least 12 weeks between May 4 and August 14, 2026. Up to two weeks may be completed online when an intern cannot be in Waterloo for the entire period.
Can you apply?
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Education required
Bachelor Enrolled
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Application process
- 1Complete the online undergraduate summer-program application and indicate interest in the PSI Start Research Internship.
- 2Submit transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of interest of no more than two pages, and a self-declaration of English proficiency.
- 3Arrange for at least two and no more than three referees to submit letters through Perimeter’s application system.
- 4Await the joint summer-school and internship selection decision.
Program timeline
Mid-December 2025
Applications opened for the 2026 cycle.
Internship application deadline.
January 18, 2026
Reference-letter deadline.
January 30, 2026
Internship selections completed.
End of February 2026
Earliest internship start.
May 4, 2026
Required undergraduate summer school.
June 15–26, 2026
Latest internship end.
August 14, 2026
End of 2026
Applications expected to open for summer 2027.