The Shakhmardan Yessenov Foundation, a scientific and educational foundation, announces its annual competition for 10 grants for undergraduate, master’s and internship students, as well as current researchers, to undertake scientific internships of up to 90 calendar days at leading scientific and research laboratories around the world.
Who can participate?
The competition is open to citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan who reside in the country and who:
- are students of a Kazakhstani university or current researchers;
- study or work in the fields of natural sciences, mathematics and statistics, information and communication technologies, engineering, manufacturing and construction, or healthcare;
- have a GPA of 3.3 or higher;
- have an English proficiency level of at least B2;
- have achievements in scientific Olympiads and competitions and a strong interest in a specific field of science;
- are interested in pursuing a PhD and continuing a career in science in Kazakhstan.
Required documents:
- a scanned copy of an identity document;
- an essay entitled “The Research I Would Like to Conduct”;
- a transcript with grades for all semesters of study;
- a bachelor’s degree diploma with grades – for master’s students and researchers, or a diploma from the most recent educational institution (no more than 1 document);
- a CV.
Additional documents:
- scientific certificates – no more than 3;
- certificates for social activity and volunteer work – no more than 2;
- publications – no more than 2;
- a recommendation letter from a research supervisor, vice-rector or rector of a university – no more than 1 document.
The application and essay may be completed in Kazakh, Russian or English. Certificates, diplomas, recommendation letters and other documents are accepted in their original language.
How to apply?
From October 5 to November 4, 2026, applicants must complete the online application on the Shakhmardan Yessenov Foundation website in the “Scientific Internships in the World’s Laboratories – 2027” program section and attach the required documents.
Applications will close on November 4, 2026, at 15:00 Astana time (GMT+5).
For questions regarding participation and the program requirements:
- Irina Grishchenko – irina.g@yessenovfoundation.org, +7 771 775 18 15
- Aigerim Sultan – aigerim.s@yessenovfoundation.org, +7 701 627 96 07
10 grants – an opportunity to gain scientific research experience at leading laboratories around the world and take the next step in developing your scientific career.
Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the competition!