Research Fellowship (Experimental Physics)

What you'll do

You will join one of CERN’s experimental physics groups, if selected for this Research Fellowship, to develop and lead your own research programme at the frontier of particle physics. You will work in a highly collaborative and international environment, analysing data, contributing to detector operations or upgrades, and engaging in the design, execution and interpretation of physics analyses. You will also be part of CERN’s vibrant scientific community through seminars, workshops, training activities and collaborative projects.

Your key tasks

• You conduct research in experimental physics within a CERN research group of your choice.
• You contribute to CERN’s experimental physics programme using its large-scale scientific instruments.
• You collaborate with physicists and engineers on studies of particle interactions and related research activities.
• You develop and pursue your research interests within the framework of the Fellowship.

Your profile

• You hold a strong background in experimental particle physics or a closely related field.
• You have research experience aligned with the scientific activities carried out at CERN’s experimental facilities.
• You are motivated to join a research group and contribute to high-impact scientific work.
• You are eager to develop and pursue your own research interests within the Fellowship framework.

Your skills

• You have solid analytical and problem-solving skills in the context of experimental physics.
• You are able to work collaboratively within large, international scientific teams.
• You communicate effectively in a scientific environment, including presenting and discussing research results.
• You can work independently while contributing to shared research objectives and collaborative projects.

• Application Deadline: 15/02/2026 at 23:59 (Geneva Time)
• Ideal start date: 01/09/2026
• Contract duration: Typically 24 months contract. A small number of outstanding candidates will be offered a 36 month fellowship
• Weekly Working Hours: 40
• Job flexibility: Fully Onsite
• Location: Geneva, Switzerland
• Job Reference: AGC-2026-RF1/CAT1-EP

Global Benefits

• A monthly stipend between 7004-7425 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
• 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 and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
• On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

• You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. A few exceptions are possible annually.
• By the application deadline, you have a PhD (or will obtain it within six months), and no more than 6 years’ research experience after completion of your PhD degree.
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• You have a good knowledge of English or French.
• Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.
• Please ensure that your application is submitted under the field of work indicated in the position title, as Experimental Physics, Applied Science and Engineering and Theoretical Physics are separate recruitment processes. All open positions within the programme are available on the Research Fellowship Programme page.

You will need these documents to complete your application

• Your CV (English or French)
• A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
• A one-page statement of research interests focusing on your plans for the research fellowship (maximum 4,000 characters).
• Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than one year at the application deadline) outlining your academic and/or professional achievements, indicating the professional relationship from the referee to you. After submitting your application, you will receive a submission link to forward to your referees; letters must be uploaded confidentially before the closing date (uploading letters yourself is possible but discouraged).

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!

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