This six-week program is designed to be an intensive “taster” of graduate-level research. You aren’t just an observer; you are integrated into a Principal Investigator’s (PI) laboratory to work on a specific scientific problem.
1. Key Dates & Deadlines
- Application Opens: March 11, 2026.
- Application Deadline: April 14, 2026 (12:00 PM CST).
- Internship Period: July 13 – August 21, 2026 (6 weeks).
2. Financial Coverage (Fully Funded)
Westlake University ensures that international talent is supported throughout their stay in Hangzhou:
- Living Stipend: A monthly allowance is provided to cover your meals and daily expenses.
- Accommodation: Free on-campus housing in Westlake’s modern dormitories.
- Travel: While the exact subsidy varies, most international interns receive support for their international airfare.
- Insurance: Comprehensive health and accident insurance are provided by the university.
Schools & Specialized Research Tracks
Westlake is divided into four main schools, each offering distinct projects for the 2026 cycle.
| School | AI & Tech Relevant Areas |
| School of Engineering | Computer Vision, Machine Learning, Intelligent Robotics, and CO₂ conversion. |
| School of Science | Statistical Physics, Theoretical Chemistry, and Nanophotonics. |
| School of Life Sciences | Quantitative Biology, Microbiome Engineering, and Cancer Research. |
| School of Medicine | Molecular Evolution, Clinical Medicine, and Strain Engineering. |
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
To maintain the high quality of research, Westlake has specific academic requirements:
- Academic Status: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s (3rd/4th year) or Master’s program (graduation year 2027/2028). Recent graduates are also eligible.
- GPA: While not strictly stated, a 3.3/4.0 GPA is generally the competitive baseline for international applicants.
- Background: Students in AI, Computer Science, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry are highly encouraged.
- Nationality: Open to all non-PRC citizens.
Required Documentation Checklist
You must prepare these documents in English for the online portal:
- Personal Statement: Explain your research interest and why you chose a specific PI.
- CV/Resume: Highlight technical skills (Python, PyTorch, Lab techniques).
- Academic Transcripts: Official records from SRM (in your case).
- Two Letters of Recommendation: Ideally from professors in your major.
- Passport Copy: Must be valid for at least six months.
The AI Edge: Strategy for SRM Students
Since you are a B.Tech AI student, you should target the School of Engineering.
- Focus on “Intelligent Systems”: Westlake is home to the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Innovation. In your personal statement, mention your interest in “Large Language Models” or “Autonomous Systems” if that fits the PI’s project.
- PI Search: Before applying, look up the PIs in the School of Engineering. Scientists like Dr. Stan Z. Li (Computer Vision) or researchers in Robotics are often looking for students with strong coding foundations.
- Hangzhou Advantage: Hangzhou is the headquarters of Alibaba and a global AI hub. Mention how this ecosystem inspires your research goals.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Review Project List: Download the 2026 Project PDF from the Westlake website. Each project has a unique ID.
- Select Your PI: You can usually list up to two project preferences.
- Submit Online: Use the Westlake Admission portal.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a technical interview via Zoom with the PI or a senior researcher in the lab.
Conclusion
The Westlake Summer Research Internship 2026 is a prestigious gateway into China’s rapidly growing scientific community. For an AI student, the opportunity to work in a high-tech environment like Hangzhou—often called the “Green Silicon Valley”—is a career-defining move.