Senior Legal Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific institution established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. Founded in 1954, CERN employs thousands of scientists and engineers from around the world, operating in multiple countries and collaborating with numerous international organizations. Its mission is to advance knowledge in the field of particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN is committed to diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce is essential for its success.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Adviser position at CERN is a prestigious role that requires a distinguished track record in public law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, particularly in the legal frameworks governing intergovernmental organizations. The successful candidate will join the Legal Service, which plays a crucial role in supporting CERN's mission by providing legal expertise and guidance. This position involves working closely with the Legal Counsel and other members of the Legal Service team, overseeing a broad legal portfolio that includes governance, privileges and immunities, and legal representation in disputes. The Senior Legal Adviser will be expected to contribute strategically to the management of the Legal Service and mentor junior legal advisers, ensuring high-quality legal support across the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Adviser will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: providing high-level legal expertise on CERN's governance; advising on privileges and immunities; representing the Legal Service in interactions with high-level authorities; overseeing the drafting and implementation of internal legislation and policies; contributing to legal representation in employment and Pension Fund disputes; supervising and mentoring legal advisers; and managing the Legal Service in the absence of the Legal Counsel. Additionally, the role may involve work in other legal domains as assigned, requiring flexibility and a broad understanding of legal issues relevant to CERN.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in public international law or a related field, with a strong focus on law applicable to intergovernmental organizations. They should have substantial experience in a senior role within an intergovernmental legal setting, demonstrating expertise in public international law, treaty interpretation, and IGO governance. Strong negotiation skills and proven capacity to represent the organization in high-level settings are essential. Experience with litigation before administrative tribunals, such as the ILOAT, and increasing responsibilities in managing legal teams are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in public international law or a closely related field is mandatory. Candidates should have a strong academic background that emphasizes the legal frameworks relevant to intergovernmental organizations, as well as practical experience in applying these laws in a professional context.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in public international law, particularly in intergovernmental organizations. Candidates should have held senior roles that involved substantial responsibilities in legal practice, negotiation, and representation. Experience in managing legal teams and providing strategic guidance to junior colleagues is also essential, as is a proven track record in litigation and dispute resolution.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written English and French is mandatory, with advanced drafting proficiency in both languages. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication and legal drafting within the diverse international environment at CERN.

Additional Notes:
The position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of applying for an indefinite position under certain conditions. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job is fully onsite at CERN's headquarters outside Geneva. The job grade is classified as 6-7-8, and the reference for this job is DG-LS-2025-235-LD. CERN emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from nationals of its Member States and Associate Member States.