Legal Adviser (SO-LS-OL-2026-76-LD)

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

Introduction:

Under the responsibility of the Head of the Operational Law section and the overall supervision of the Legal Counsel, you will provide legal support to the Organization primarily in the domain of international agreements governing CERN’s scientific and technical cooperation with its partners around the world and in matters of commercial law.

Functions:

• Draft and negotiate international agreements (including scientific collaboration agreements and E.U. Consortium Agreements) with a broad range of interlocutors, both public and private.
• Provide legal support on commercial and contractual matters, including the drafting and negotiation of commercial contracts and disputes related thereto.
• In collaboration with CERN’s Office of Data Protection, provide legal support on matters related to data privacy protection.
• Provide legal advice on CERN’s international status, as well as its internal functioning.
• Contribute to the drafting and implementation of internal legislation, policies and frameworks.
• In addition to your core functions, you may be assigned work in other legal domains.

 

Law Degree and a Master’s Degree, or equivalent relevant experience, in Public International Law or a related field, ideally with a focus on the legal framework applicable to intergovernmental organisations.

Experience:

• Extensive professional experience as a lawyer in an intergovernmental organisation and/or with drafting and negotiating agreements with public entities.
• Demonstrated experience practising commercial/contract law.
• Demonstrated experience in matters of data privacy protection would be a strong asset.
• Exposure to the laws of CERN’s Host States (Switzerland and France) and EU law would be a strong asset.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of International Administrative Law (law of the International Civil Service): and/or contract law.
• Negotiation.
• Legal drafting.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.

Language skills:

Excellent spoken and written English, including demonstrated drafting skills; with a willingness to learn French.

More information here.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 28.04.2026 at 23:59 CEST. 

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SO-LS-OL-2026-76-LD

Field of work: Support Services (Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement)

Benchmark Job Title: Legal Adviser

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern