Senior EC Project Coordinator (IT-DI-2026-62-LD)

At CERN, the European Organisation 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

Could you help realise the dream of science clusters across Europe collaborating on common tools and infrastructure? Drive CERN’s participation in major EC multi-science research infrastructure projects to make this a reality!

Functions

• Lead CERN’s participation in the ESCAPE (European Science Cluster of Astronomy & Particle Physics ESFRIs) Collaboration, steering and shaping the activities towards the needs of High Energy Physics and multi-science initiatives.
• Represent CERN in the ESCAPE Collaboration board, strengthening CERN’s leadership in the ESCAPE governance.
• Drive the ESCAPE science cluster to converge on a common vision for Open Science.
• Engage with other European science clusters to foster alignment of infrastructure projects for research activities and open science.
• Coordinate CERN’s participation in the next major EC funding round oriented towards Scientific Clusters with the ambition for CERN to lead some of the proposals.

PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Applied Physics, Engineering or a related field.

 

Experience:

Required

• Significant experience in leading and coordinating large-scale scientific collaborations.
• Proven experience in managing Research and Innovation projects funded by the European Commission.
• Demonstrated experience in international scientific collaborations, managing complex research activities, and coordinating contributions from various institutes and industries.

Desired

• Experience collaborating across scientific communities in the field of computing.
• Experience in negotiating and collaborating with industry.
• Post-doctoral or equivalent certification recognising excellence in leading research in science or technology.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of Funding Programmes, key EC contact points.
• Project management, including knowledge of the procedures and processes applicable to EU-funded research and innovation projects.
• Experience in Project Proposal writing, notably large-scale, multi-institute, multi-science projects.
• Strategic Management implementing CERN’s vision into multi-science initiatives benefiting CERNs programme.
• Operational Management including negotiation across multiple project partners.

Behavioural competencies:

• Setting Direction: promoting innovative thinking and the circulation of ideas and information within own team and across departments.
• Creating Vision and Strategic Partnerships: building comprehensive road maps to translate the organisational vision to an operational level; defining and sets direction accordingly.
• Optimising Resources: effectively managing budget, optimising human and financial resources.
• Leading with Strength and Credibility: making timely decisions that balance systematic analysis with decisiveness; dealing with difficulties in a timely manner.
• Communicating Effectively: leveraging support networks across the Organisation.

Language skills:

Spoken and written both English and French.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organisation. 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 03.04.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (3 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Hybrid

This position involves:

• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Job grade: 8

Job reference: IT-DI-2026-62-LD

Field of work: Data Science & Data Analytics

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

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