Recruitment has officially opened for the DFN Project SEARCH University of Aberdeen internship programme for 2026/27, offering life‑changing employability opportunities to young people in the North‑east of Scotland who have learning disabilities or who are on the autistic spectrum.
DFN Project SEARCH University of Aberdeen is an award‑winning, year‑long employability initiative that provides interns aged 16-24 from Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire with real‑life work experience, City & Guilds qualifications, and tailored support designed to help them move confidently into sustained paid employment.
Each year, 12 interns undertake three work placements across the University, gaining more than 800 hours of hands‑on experience while building essential workplace and skills for independence.
An in‑person Open Day will be held on Thursday 5 February 2026, with drop‑in sessions available from 10am to 4pm in the Project SEARCH classroom in the Butchart Building on University Road. Visitors will have the chance to meet the team, explore the learning environment, and access help with the application process.
Applications remain open until Monday 16 March 2026, with final interviews scheduled for Thursday 16 April 2026.
DFN Project SEARCH University of Aberdeen has a proven record of success since it launched in September 2013. More than 60% of graduates have secured paid employment in the North‑east, an outcome nearly ten times higher than for individuals with learning disabilities who do not access any post‑school programme.
With support from long‑standing partners across local business, private and public sector organisations, the programme continues to expand employability pathways, equip young people with the skills they need to thrive, and deliver meaningful social and economic benefits across the region.
Heather Crabb, DFN Project SEARCH lead at the University of Aberdeen, said: “Each year, we see young people join Project SEARCH with a huge amount of potential, and it’s a privilege to watch them grow in confidence, capability and independence.
“This programme is built on genuine partnership and a shared belief that every young person deserves the chance to thrive in meaningful employment. As we open recruitment for the 2026/27 cohort, we’re excited to welcome new interns into our community, supporting them to gain real experience, build valuable skills and take the next step towards a bright and sustainable future.”
Full details, application guidance, and supporting resources are available at:
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/staffnet/working-here/project-search/recruitment/
