The CERN Research Fellowship 2026 is an outstanding opportunity for early-career researchers who want to advance their careers in one of the world's leading scientific organizations. Hosted by CERN in Switzerland, this fully funded postdoctoral fellowship allows talented scientists and engineers to contribute to groundbreaking research in applied physics and engineering while working alongside internationally recognized experts

.Located on the border of Switzerland and France near Geneva, CERN has earned a global reputation for pioneering discoveries in particle physics and developing technologies that have transformed science and society. The fellowship provides not only financial support but also access to world-class laboratories, advanced research infrastructure, and an international research community.

If you have recently completed your PhD or are about to graduate, this fellowship could be the perfect opportunity to strengthen your research profile while working on some of the most sophisticated scientific experiments ever built.

Overview of the CERN Research Fellowship 2026

About CERN

The European Organization for Nuclear Research, commonly known as CERN, is one of the world's foremost research institutions. Scientists from more than 100 countries collaborate at CERN to explore the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

Beyond scientific discoveries, CERN is famous for creating technologies that have changed everyday life, including contributions to computing, medical imaging, and data science. Researchers working at CERN benefit from an environment that encourages innovation, international collaboration, and interdisciplinary research.The CERN Research Fellowship places successful candidates within the Experimental Physics Department, where they contribute to the design, development, testing, and operation of advanced scientific experiments.

CERN Research Fellowship Benefits

One of the biggest attractions of the CERN Research Fellowship is its generous funding package. Successful fellows receive financial, professional, and personal support throughout their appointment.

Competitive Monthly Salary

Selected researchers receive a net monthly stipend ranging between 7,004 and 7,425 Swiss Francs, depending on their academic qualifications.

Since the salary is paid net of tax under CERN's salary structure, fellows enjoy a highly competitive income while living in Switzerland.

Comprehensive Health Insurance

The fellowship includes access to CERN's extensive health insurance scheme covering:

• The fellow
• Spouse
• Children

This significantly reduces healthcare expenses during the fellowship.

Pension Benefits

Researchers automatically become members of the CERN Pension Fund, helping them build long-term financial security during their appointment.

Paid Annual Leave

Fellows receive:

• 30 days of paid annual leave
• Two weeks of annual CERN closure

This generous leave policy promotes work-life balance.

Family Support

Eligible fellows may receive additional financial assistance, including:

• Family allowance
• Child allowance
• Infant allowance

These benefits vary depending on individual family circumstances.

Relocation Assistance

Moving to Switzerland can be expensive, but CERN helps ease the transition through relocation support that may include:

• Installation grant
• Travel expense reimbursement

The exact amount depends on personal circumstances and eligibility.

Professional Development

The fellowship also includes numerous career development opportunities, including:

• On-the-job training
• Technical workshops
• Professional courses
• Language classes
• Collaboration with leading scientists

These experiences help fellows build valuable skills that extend beyond their research project.

Contract Extension Opportunity

The initial fellowship lasts 24 months, with the possibility of extending it up to 36 months, depending on research needs and performance.

Who Can Apply?

The CERN Research Fellowship is designed primarily for promising early-career researchers.

Applicants must satisfy several eligibility requirements before applying.

Nationality Requirements

Applicants must normally be nationals of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State.

CERN occasionally makes limited exceptions each year for candidates from other countries.

Academic Qualification

By the application deadline, applicants must:

• Hold a PhD degree, or
• Expect to obtain their PhD within six months.

Research Experience

Candidates should normally have no more than three years of postdoctoral research experience after completing their PhD.

In exceptional cases, applicants with up to six years of research experience may also be considered.

Previous CERN Employment

Applicants cannot have previously held:

• A CERN Fellow contract
• A CERN Graduate contract

Language Skills

Applicants should possess a good working knowledge of either:

• English
• French

Knowledge of both languages is beneficial but not mandatory.

Research Areas Covered

The fellowship specifically targets researchers working in:

Applied Physics

Researchers may contribute to developing technologies used in modern particle physics experiments.

Engineering

Engineering projects may involve:

• Detector development
• Electronics
• Mechanical engineering
• Instrumentation
• Control systems
• Accelerator technologies

Applicants should carefully select the correct field of work during the application process.

CERN conducts separate recruitment processes for:

• Experimental Physics
• Applied Science and Engineering
• Theoretical Physics

Submitting your application under the correct category is essential.

Required Documents

Preparing a complete application greatly improves your chances of success.

Applicants should prepare the following documents.

Updated CV

Your curriculum vitae should be written in either:

• English
• French

Highlight:

• Academic qualifications
• Research experience
• Publications
• Technical skills
• Conferences
• Awards

Degree Certificate

Applicants must submit either:

• Their most relevant university diploma, or
• An official certificate confirming degree completion.

Recommendation Letters

Three confidential recommendation letters are required.

These letters should:

• Be less than one year old
• Describe your research achievements
• Evaluate your academic potential

After submitting your application, CERN will send a secure upload link that you should forward to your referees.

Supporting Documents

Applicants may include additional materials such as:

• Research publications
• Awards
• Technical reports
• Relevant certificates

How to Apply for the CERN Research Fellowship 2026

Applying is straightforward if you prepare your documents in advance.

Step 1

Prepare your CV in English or French.

Step 2

Collect your university diploma or official certificate.

Step 3

Contact three referees and request recommendation letters.

Step 4

Gather any additional documents supporting your application.

Step 5

Submit your online application through the official CERN application portal.

Step 6

Forward the recommendation letter submission link to your referees immediately after submitting your application.

Ensure all documents are uploaded before the application deadline.

Why Choose the CERN Research Fellowship?

Many postdoctoral fellowships provide funding, but very few offer the combination of scientific excellence, international collaboration, and cutting-edge infrastructure available at CERN.

Some major advantages include:

• Working with world-leading scientists
• Access to advanced research facilities
• Excellent salary and employee benefits
• International networking opportunities
• Professional development courses
• Career advancement in academia and industry
• Possibility of extending the fellowship

Researchers who complete fellowships at CERN often move on to prestigious academic positions, research institutes, and technology companies around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens during the first week at CERN?

New fellows participate in an official induction programme held at the beginning of each month. Before arriving, they also receive detailed onboarding information to ensure a smooth transition into their new position.

How large are the research teams?

Team size varies depending on the project. Some research groups are small and highly specialized, while others involve larger multidisciplinary collaborations.

What language is used at CERN?

English and French are the official working languages.

Many positions require proficiency in only one language. CERN also provides language training to help employees improve their language skills.

Does CERN help with relocation?

Although CERN does not directly manage relocation, eligible fellows may receive:

• Installation allowance
• Travel expense reimbursement

These benefits help reduce moving costs.

Do I need a visa?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality.

CERN assists successful applicants with visa and work permit procedures where necessary.

How much will I earn?

Researchers receive a monthly net salary ranging from CHF 7,004 to CHF 7,425, depending on their qualifications.

When does the fellowship begin?

The expected start date is 1 January 2027.

How long is the fellowship?

The initial appointment lasts 24 months, with the possibility of extending it to 36 months.

Which documents are mandatory?

Applicants must submit:

• CV
• Degree certificate
• Three recommendation letters
• Any additional supporting documents

Can non-member state nationals apply?

Generally, applicants must be nationals of CERN Member States or Associate Member States.

However, CERN occasionally considers a limited number of exceptional cases.

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