Research Fellowship : Theoretical Physics

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. Find out more on home.cern

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization.

Welcome to the Research Fellowship : Theoretical Physics

The Research Fellowship Programme is aimed at PhD holders in the field of theoretical physics and up to 6 years’ experience after obtaining their PhD degree. Research Fellowships are intended for PhD graduates looking to work in a research group in the Theory Department.

In order to qualify for a place on the programme you will need to meet the following requirements:

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State. A limited number of positions are also available to candidates from Non-Member States who need to apply for the Non-Member State Postdoc Fellowship Programme (Theoretical Physics).
• You have a PhD in theoretical physics (or the defense date is already scheduled). In any event, you should have finished your PhD studies by the time you take up your appointment at CERN.
• You have no more than 6 years’ research experience after completion of your PhD degree.
• Please note that CERN Staff members are not eligible to apply for a Fellowship.

CERN would very much like to benefit from your expertise, commitment and passion.  In return, CERN will provide you with:

• An employment contract for in principle 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months.
• A stipend ranging from 6,808 to 7,218 Swiss francs per month (net of tax).
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Depending on your individual circumstances: an installation grant, family, child and infant allowances as well as travel expenses to and from Geneva.
• 2.5 days of paid leave per month.

Your future Life @CERN

Get a glimpse of what it’s like to work at CERN: https://careers.cern/benefits and https://careers.cern/our-people

This is how you can apply:

You will need the following documents (in PDF format, as separate files) to complete your application:

• A CV.
• Your most recent relevant qualification.
• A statement of research interests highlighting your plans for the research fellowship.
• Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than a year at the time of the deadline for applications) giving an overview of your academic and/or professional achievements.
  • You will be provided with a link as soon as you have submitted your application to forward to your referees to upload their letters confidentially. Please note this must be done before the closing date. You can also upload these letters at the time of the application if you have them to hand.

All applications should normally reach us no later than 15 October 2024 (at midnight) CET time and the results will be communicated by January 15 2025.

Please note that all the documents you upload will remain attached to your Smartrecruiters profile. You do not need to upload them again for other applications you might submit.