Doctoral Student Programme – PhD Research at CERN

About the role

You will spend up to 36 months working on your doctoral thesis in a unique environment where science, technology and innovation intersect. You will be part of an international community of experts, gaining experience at the forefront of research and engineering.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out your doctoral research in collaboration with CERN and your home university.
• Contribute to ongoing projects in applied physics, computing, engineering or related technical fields.
• Present and document your work as part of your academic and research objectives.
• Learn from and work alongside world‑class scientists, engineers and technicians within an international, multidisciplinary team.

Required profile

• Field of study in Applied Physics, Engineering, Computing or a related area.
• Motivated to develop research in a hands‑on, collaborative and innovative environment.
• Enjoy teamwork and learning from others in a collaborative setting.

What we offer

• A monthly tax‑free allowance of 3 907 CHF.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus a two‑week annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health‑insurance scheme (contribution deducted from allowance).
• Family supplement to the subsistence allowance, depending on individual circumstances.
• Travel expenses to Geneva upon joining CERN, depending on individual circumstances.
• Contract duration of 12 months, renewable up to 3 years (maximum 4 consecutive years) to allow time at the university.