Discover Research Opportunities Worldwide

Research assistantships, programs, and collaborative projects for students and early-career researchers.

A research opportunity is a chance to take part in a research project, such as an assistantship, lab placement, visiting research stay or collaborative program. Students and early-career researchers use them to build skills and publications. Browse and compare research opportunities worldwide on this page.

Who research opportunities are for

These listings suit undergraduates seeking a first lab experience, master's and PhD students looking for a project or visiting stay, and early-career researchers exploring collaboration. They are also useful if you are preparing for graduate study and want evidence of research ability.

Opportunities exist across the sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities, in universities, institutes and industry labs.

Before applying, define what you want from the experience: learning a technique, contributing to a paper, testing a topic for a thesis or building a relationship with a supervisor. A clear goal helps you choose between a short, structured program and a longer placement in one lab.

How to find and compare opportunities

Compare the research topic, supervisor or group, length, location and funding. Check whether the role is paid or funded, what you will be expected to do, and whether it can lead to authorship or a recommendation letter. A well-matched supervisor often matters more than the institution's name.

Use the filters to narrow by country and funding type. When a listing mentions a research group, read recent publications from that group so your application reflects their work.

Read the group's recent papers and, if possible, their website. You do not need to understand every detail, but you should be able to say which question interests you and how your background could help. This is what separates a convincing message from a generic one.

Typical eligibility, documents and timeline

Applications often include a CV, transcripts, a statement of interest or short proposal and academic references. Some ask for a writing sample or contact with a supervisor before applying.

Timing varies: structured programs often have fixed deadlines months ahead, while direct approaches to labs can happen year-round. Start early so you can discuss your plans and secure references.

Ask practical questions early: who supervises day to day, how many hours you are expected to work, what equipment or data you will use, and whether there is funding for housing or travel. Clear answers up front prevent misunderstandings later.

Mistakes to avoid

Mass-emailing supervisors with a generic message rarely works. Write short, specific emails that show you have read their work and explain what you can contribute. Another mistake is accepting an unfunded position without checking costs, visa rules and what you will actually gain.

Agree expectations early, such as hours, duties and authorship, and apply only through official university or institute channels.

Keep a record of what you do, including methods, results and presentations. It will make it easier to write your CV, a recommendation request and future statements, and it shows you can describe research work in a structured way.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find research opportunities as a student?

Look at university and institute pages, program listings and the filters here, then read recent publications from groups that interest you. Contact supervisors with a short, specific message and a clear CV.

Are research assistantships paid?

Many are, either through a salary or a stipend, but some are voluntary or credit-based. The listing and official page should state the terms. Confirm before you commit.

Can undergraduates do research abroad?

Yes, some programs accept undergraduates for placements or visiting stays. Eligibility differs by program, so check the requirements and any visa needs.

How do I email a professor about research?

Keep it brief and specific: introduce yourself, say why their work interests you, outline relevant skills and attach a CV. Avoid generic mass emails and follow up politely once.

Do research placements lead to publications?

Sometimes, depending on the project, your contribution and the research timeline. It is never guaranteed, so discuss authorship expectations with the supervisor.

What is a visiting researcher?

A visiting researcher spends a period at another institution, often to collaborate or use facilities, while staying linked to their home institution. Terms and funding vary by host.

How early should I apply for a research position?

Usually several months before the intended start. Structured programs have fixed deadlines, and funding applications may need earlier submission. Check each listing.

Keep exploring

Related categories: fellowships, conferences and scholarships. You can also browse opportunities by country or read our application guides.

How we keep listings accurate: opportunities are collected from public sources and checked, but details can change. Always confirm deadlines and requirements on the official website before you apply. Read our editorial policy.