Research Fellowship

Boost your career at one of the world’s largest hubs for scientific collaboration. As a CERN research fellow, you will sharpen your skills, work on cutting-edge research, and network with world-leading experts.
See open positions by Field of Work

Programme overview

The CERN Research Fellowship Programme, which is part of our broader Graduate Programme, is an exceptional opportunity for recent PhD graduates in physics and engineering. As a fellow, you’ll dive into advanced research in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Define your own projects, collaborate with leading experts, and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries. This programme offers the perfect environment to advance your expertise, gain international recognition, and make a lasting impact in the scientific community.

  • A monthly stipend between 6911-7326 Swiss Francs per month (net of tax) depending on your degree
  • Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your partner and children) and contribution to CERN Pension Fund
  • Depending on your individual circumstances: an installation grant, family, child and infant allowances as well as travel expenses to Geneva upon joining CERN
  • 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks during annual closure of CERN
  • On-the-job and formal training including language classes
  • A contract duration of 6 to 24 months, with a possibility to extend to up to 36 months
Embark on a Journey of Scientific Discovery

Explore a wide range

of opportunities

Experimental Physics

Experimental Physics

CERN’s Experimental Physics challenges the limits of our understanding, transforming bold theories into high-energy collisions that reveal the universe’s deepest secrets. From designing experiments to analysing breakthrough data, our physicists push the boundaries of knowledge every day. Ready to turn theory into discovery?

Theoretical Physics

Theoretical Physics

Theoretical physics at CERN explores the fundamental principles of particles and forces, providing the framework for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level. It transforms abstract concepts into testable predictions, ensuring that CERN remains at the cutting edge of discovery.

Applied Physics

Applied Physics

Applied Physics at CERN plays a vital role in transforming theoretical concepts into tangible technologies that drive both scientific discovery and practical innovation. From developing cutting-edge particle detectors to contributing to global medical advancements, CERN’s applied physicists are at the forefront of technology that changes the world.

Electrical or Electronics Engineering

Electrical or Electronics Engineering

Pivotal in designing, developing, and maintaining the sophisticated systems that power our cutting-edge experiments.

Material and Surface Science

Material and Surface Science

Developing and maintaining advanced materials and surfaces essential for the optimal performance of particle accelerators.

Mathematics

Mathematics

Mathematics at CERN provides the essential language and tools that underpin theoretical models, data analysis, and algorithm development. From simulating high-energy collisions to optimizing detector performance, mathematical methods drive innovation across all areas of particle physics research.

Here is a sneak peek of the eligibility criteria and recruitment process

Eligibility Criteria

  • Nationality
    You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. A few exceptions are possible annually.
    Our Member and Associate Member States
  • Educational background & professional experience
    For Theoretical and Experimental Physics: You have a PhD and up to 6 years of professional experience since graduation.

    For Applied Sciences and Engineering: You have a PhD and up to 3 years of professional experience since graduation.
  • Previous CERN experience
    You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

Recruitment process for this programme

  1. Submit application
    Apply with your CV (in English or French) and complete the online application before the deadline.
    Add 3 reference letters + a copy of your PhD or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don’t yet have your paper diploma).
  2. Application review and interview
    Your application will be reviewed and you may be invited to take part in a 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.
  3. Offer and onboarding
    If you are successful, you will receive a job offer. Once you accept, your onboarding journey begin!

Open positions in the Research Fellowship

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Experimental Physics

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Mathematics

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