Summary
The CERN Doctoral Student Programme offers PhD candidates a unique opportunity to conduct their doctoral research within an international and multidisciplinary environment. Participants will spend up to 36 months at CERN, contributing to cutting-edge projects in applied physics, computing, engineering, and related technical fields, while collaborating with their home university.
Designation
Doctoral Student
Scholarship Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Ideal Start Date | 01/04/2027 |
| Weekly Working Hours | 40 hours |
| Contract Duration | 12 to 36 months (renewable up to 3 years, with possibility to spread over a maximum of 4 consecutive years) |
| Job Flexibility | Fully Onsite |
| Monthly Allowance | 3907 Swiss Francs (tax free) |
| Paid Leave | 30 days per year + 2 weeks annual closure |
| Health Insurance | CERN’s comprehensive scheme (contribution deducted automatically) |
| Family Supplement | Available depending on individual circumstances |
| Travel Expenses | To Geneva upon joining CERN, depending on individual circumstances |
Research Areas
- Applied Physics
- Computing
- Engineering
- Related technical fields
Location
CERN, Geneva, Switzerland
Eligibility & Qualification
Requirements:
- You must be a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. (Note: Currently, applications from Pakistani, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot, and Croatian nationals cannot be considered.)
- Good knowledge of English or French.
- Your home university must support your participation, agreeing that research conducted at CERN will contribute to your PhD thesis.
- Your field of study should align with CERN’s research areas (physics, engineering, computer science, or related applied sciences).
- You must be enrolled in a doctoral program in a relevant field and have begun your doctoral studies at the time of application.
Your Profile:
- Field of study in Applied Physics, Engineering, Computing, or a related area.
- Motivated to develop research in a hands-on, collaborative, and innovative environment.
- Enjoys teamwork and learning from others.
Your Skills:
- Solid theoretical foundation in your research area with an interest in practical applications.
- Curiosity, precision, and a proactive attitude.
- Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.
Scholarship Description
This programme offers doctoral students the chance to conduct their PhD research at CERN, working alongside world-class scientists and engineers. You will be immersed in a unique environment where science, technology, and innovation converge, contributing to ongoing projects and gaining invaluable experience at the forefront of research. The programme provides a comprehensive support package, including a tax-free monthly allowance, health insurance, paid leave, and potential family supplements and travel expenses.
How to Apply
To complete your application, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Your CV (in English or French)
- Any other document you consider relevant to your application
- An academic reference letter (optional)
- An academic transcript (optional)
Last Date to Apply
16 October 2026 at 23:59 (Geneva time)
