Programme overview
The Doctoral Student Programme at CERN is an exceptional opportunity designed for PhD students to engage in cutting-edge research at one of the world’s most prestigious scientific institutions. As a participant, you are given the chance to collaborate with leading scientists and engineers, contributing to projects that push the boundaries of human knowledge.
In addition to the technical and research experience, CERN’s Doctoral Student Programme offers a vibrant, multicultural environment, with students and professionals from all over the world. This diversity fosters a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives, further enhancing the learning experience.
What we offer
- A monthly allowance of 3891 Swiss Francs (tax free).
- Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive Health Insurance scheme (the contribution will be automatically deducted from your allowance).
- Family supplement to subsistence allowance, depending on your individual circumstances.
- Travel expenses to Geneva upon joining CERN, depending on your individual circumstances.
- 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
- A contract duration for 6 months, renewable up to 3 years, with possibility to spread over a maximum duration of 4 consecutive years to allow you to spend time at your university.



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Here is a sneak peek of the eligibility criteria and recruitment process
Eligibility Criteria
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NationalityYou are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.Our Member and Associate Member States
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Specific requirementYour university must accept that the research you conduct at CERN contributes to your doctoral thesis in one of CERN’s fields of work (experimental and theoretical physics, engineering, computer science and applied sciences)
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Student statusYou are enrolled in a doctoral program in a relevant field such as physics, engineering, computer science, or a related discipline. You should have begun your doctoral studies at the time of application.
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Language skillsYou have a good knowledge of English or French.
Recruitment process for this programme
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Submit applicationApply with your CV (in English or French) and complete the online application before the deadline.
Add an academic reference letter + transcript (optional). -
Application review and interviewYour application will be reviewed and you may be invited to take part in an online interview with the hiring manager(s) to discuss your application, CERN and the position, and for you both to determine if it could be a good fit.
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Offer and onboarding:If you are successful, you will receive an offer. Once you accept, your onboarding journey begin!
They have completed their Doctoral Studentship
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