Research Fellowship: Experimental Physics

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. Founded in 1954, CERN employs thousands of physicists and engineers who work collaboratively to explore the basic constituents of matter using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments. The organization operates in multiple countries and is dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion as part of its core mission.

Job Overview:
The Research Fellowship Programme at CERN is designed for PhD holders in experimental physics, offering an opportunity for candidates with up to 6 years of post-PhD experience to engage in cutting-edge research. This program is not for a specific job but allows selected candidates the freedom to choose their research group. Applicants are encouraged to express their motivations during the online application process, which may include attaching a motivation letter. Candidates with a focus on theoretical physics or applied science and engineering are advised to apply for the respective fellowships tailored to those fields. The program aims to cultivate a rich research environment where fellows can contribute to significant scientific advancements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a Research Fellow in Experimental Physics at CERN, you will be expected to engage in various research activities, including but not limited to: collaborating with established research groups, contributing to experimental design and implementation, analyzing data from experiments, and publishing research findings in reputable scientific journals. You will also participate in seminars and workshops, presenting your research to peers and contributing to the scientific community at CERN. Additionally, you may be involved in mentoring junior researchers and students, fostering a collaborative and innovative research atmosphere.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Research Fellowship Programme, candidates must be nationals of CERN Member or Associate Member States, with a limited number of positions available for candidates from Non-Member States. Applicants should possess or be on the verge of obtaining a PhD in particle physics or a closely related discipline that aligns with CERN's experimental facilities. Candidates must have no more than 6 years of research experience post-PhD by the application deadline. It is important to note that current CERN staff members are not eligible for this fellowship.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a PhD in particle physics or a closely related field. If the PhD has not yet been obtained, the defense date must be scheduled, and the degree should be completed within six months after the job posting deadline. This educational requirement ensures that applicants have a solid foundation in the principles of physics and the necessary skills to contribute effectively to CERN's research initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a maximum of 6 years of research experience following the completion of their PhD. This experience should ideally be in experimental physics or a related area, demonstrating the candidate's ability to engage in high-level research and contribute to ongoing projects at CERN. The fellowship is aimed at early-career researchers who are looking to advance their expertise and make significant contributions to the field of particle physics.

Languages:
While the primary working language at CERN is English, proficiency in additional languages can be beneficial. Candidates are expected to have a strong command of English, both written and spoken, to effectively communicate their research and collaborate with international teams. Knowledge of French or other languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The Research Fellowship at CERN typically offers an employment contract for 24 months, with a possibility for a select few outstanding candidates to receive a 36-month fellowship. The stipend ranges from 6,808 to 7,218 Swiss francs per month, net of tax. Fellows will also benefit from CERN's comprehensive health scheme, which covers themselves, their spouses, and children, along with membership in the CERN Pension Fund. Additional benefits may include installation grants, family allowances, and travel expenses to and from Geneva. Fellows are entitled to 2.5 days of paid leave per month. The application process requires several documents, including a CV, recent qualifications, a statement of research interests, and letters of recommendation.