The long research project is a year-long course in the ENS de Lyon diploma. It is most often done in the fourth year of the degree, but can sometimes be done in the third year.

The long research project constitutes in-depth training in research. It is composed of several long experiences that may take the form of internships or research stays, as well as a minimum of 200 hours of training, of which at least 50 hours are classroom-based.

The long research project includes at least two internships or research stays, which must be carried out in two different organizations and two different research laboratories or environments. The total duration of the internships is at least 8 months, of which at least 5 are carried out outside the Lyon-Saint-Etienne site. International mobility is strongly encouraged.