CERN Research Fellowship 2026 applications are now open for talented researchers from around the world. Hosted in Switzerland at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), this fully funded international fellowship is designed for PhD holders eager to advance their careers by working within leading research groups. With a duration of 24 to 36 months, it offers a rare chance to engage in groundbreaking scientific exploration while collaborating with top experts in the field.
This prestigious fellowship provides a comprehensive benefits package, including a job contract, competitive stipend, travel expenses, family allowance, and paid leave, ensuring scholars can focus fully on their research. Applicants from CERN Member or Associate Member States are invited to apply, and there is no application fee required. The CERN Research Fellowship 2026 is not only a professional opportunity but also a gateway to contributing to global innovation at one of the most advanced scientific organizations in the world.
Benefits
The Fellowship Covers:
- Duration: 24-month contract, with a possible extension up to 36 months.
- Salary: Net monthly stipend between 6,911 and 7,326 Swiss francs.
- Benefits:
- Comprehensive health coverage for you, your spouse, and your children.
- CERN Pension Fund membership.
- Allowances (e.g., installation, family, child, infant) and travel expenses to and from Geneva, depending on your circumstances.
- Leave: 2.5 days of paid leave per month.
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State. A limited number of positions are also open to candidates from Non-Member States who apply through a specific program.
- You must have a PhD in theoretical physics or a scheduled defense date. The PhD must be completed by the time you start the position.
- You should have no more than 6 years of research experience after your PhD.
- CERN staff members are not eligible to apply.
Required Documents
- CV.
- Most recent relevant qualification.
- Statement of research interests.
- Three recent letters of recommendation.
Research Area
- Theoretical Physics
- Applicants will work in a Research Group in the Theory Department.
How to Apply?
- Gather your documents
Prepare the following in PDF format (as separate files): your curriculum vitae (CV), your most recent academic qualification, a statement of research interests (outlining what you plan to work on during the fellowship), and three letters of recommendation (issued within the last year). - Submit your application
Fill out the online application form and upload all your documents. During submission, you’ll be sent a link to forward to your referees so they can upload their letters confidentially. If you already have the letters, you can upload them immediately. - Remind your referees
Ask your recommenders to submit their letters before the deadline. The reference letter links must be completed by that time in order for your application to be considered. - Review and finalize
Double-check that all required files are uploaded and that your referees have submitted their letters. Once everything is in place, submit your full application by the deadline (midnight CEST). - Wait for outcome
After submission, your application will be reviewed by the selection committee. If you’re selected, you’ll be contacted with further instructions about your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The CERN Research Fellowship 2026 invites early-career theoretical physicists (within 6 years post-PhD) from CERN Member or Associate States (and select non-Member candidates) to apply. It offers a 24–36 month contract, stipend, benefits, leave, and allowances.
Who is eligible to apply for the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
You must be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State. A few places are available for non-Member State researchers through a separate program. Applicants also need a PhD in theoretical physics, or a defense already scheduled, with no more than six years of post-PhD experience.
What is the duration of the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship offers an initial 24-month contract.
Depending on progress and needs, the appointment may be extended to a maximum of 36 months, giving researchers valuable time to pursue advanced theoretical physics projects at CERN.
What stipend is provided during the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
Fellows receive a monthly net stipend ranging from 6,911 to 7,326 Swiss francs. This competitive salary ensures researchers can focus entirely on their projects in theoretical physics while benefiting from CERN’s international research environment.
What health and pension benefits are included in the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
Participants are covered by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance, extending to spouses and dependent children. They also become members of the CERN Pension Fund, ensuring long-term financial and medical security throughout the fellowship period.
Does the CERN Research Fellowship 2026 cover allowances and travel expenses?
Yes, fellows may receive an installation grant, family allowance, child or infant allowances, and travel costs to and from Geneva. These allowances help researchers relocate smoothly and provide essential support for different family situations.
How much paid leave is offered during the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
Researchers receive 2.5 days of paid leave per month.
This ensures a balanced work-life schedule, enabling fellows to rest and manage personal responsibilities while advancing their scientific contributions at CERN.
Which research area is covered by the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
The program is dedicated to theoretical physics, with fellows joining research groups in CERN’s Theory Department.
This opportunity provides direct collaboration with leading scientists and the chance to contribute to global advances in high-level physics.
What documents are required to apply for the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
Applicants must submit a CV, their latest academic qualification, a statement of research interests, and three recommendation letters.
All documents must be uploaded in PDF format, and references should be provided before the application deadline.
How do referees submit letters for the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
Applicants receive a link to forward to their referees during the application process. Referees must upload their confidential recommendation letters before the deadline, as incomplete applications cannot be considered by the selection committee.
What is the deadline for the CERN Research Fellowship 2026?
The final deadline for applications is 3 November 2025 at midnight CEST. Candidates must upload all required documents and ensure referees submit their letters on time, as late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
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