Legal Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With a mission to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs thousands of physicists, engineers, and other professionals from various fields. The organization operates in multiple countries and collaborates with numerous international partners, making it a hub for groundbreaking research in particle physics and related disciplines. CERN's commitment to diversity and inclusion is a core value that has been integral to its mission since its inception, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Job Overview:
The Legal Adviser position at CERN involves providing comprehensive legal support primarily in the domain of international agreements that govern CERN's scientific and technical cooperation with its global partners. The role requires drafting and negotiating various types of international agreements, including scientific collaboration agreements and E.U. Consortium Agreements, while also addressing commercial law matters. The Legal Adviser will work closely with CERN's Office of Data Protection to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations and will provide legal advice on CERN's international status and internal functioning. This position is crucial for maintaining CERN's legal integrity and facilitating its operations in a complex international environment. The successful candidate will also contribute to the drafting and implementation of internal legislation, policies, and frameworks, and may be assigned additional legal work as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Draft and negotiate international agreements, including scientific collaboration agreements and E.U. Consortium Agreements, with a diverse range of stakeholders, both public and private.
• Provide legal support on commercial and contractual matters, including the drafting and negotiation of commercial contracts and resolving disputes related to these contracts.
• Collaborate with CERN’s Office of Data Protection to provide legal guidance on data privacy protection issues.
• Offer legal advice regarding CERN’s international status and its internal operational framework.
• Contribute to the drafting and implementation of internal legislation, policies, and frameworks to ensure compliance with legal standards.
• Engage in additional legal domains as assigned by the Head of the Operational Law section.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant laws and regulations affecting CERN's operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Law Degree and a Master’s Degree, or equivalent relevant experience, in Public International Law or a related field, ideally with a focus on the legal framework applicable to intergovernmental organizations. Extensive professional experience as a lawyer in an intergovernmental organization is essential, along with demonstrated experience in drafting and negotiating agreements with public entities. A strong background in commercial/contract law is required, and experience in data privacy protection is considered a significant asset. Familiarity with the laws of CERN’s Host States (Switzerland and France) and EU law is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a Law Degree and a Master’s Degree in Public International Law or a closely related field. This educational background should ideally include a focus on the legal frameworks applicable to intergovernmental organizations, equipping the candidate with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of international law as it pertains to CERN's operations.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive professional experience as a lawyer, particularly within intergovernmental organizations. This experience should include a strong track record in drafting and negotiating international agreements, as well as a solid understanding of commercial and contract law. Experience in data privacy protection is highly desirable, and familiarity with the legal systems of CERN's Host States and EU law will be considered a strong asset.

Languages:
Excellent spoken and written English is mandatory, including demonstrated drafting skills. Candidates should also have a willingness to learn French, as bilingualism can enhance communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position offers a limited duration contract of 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure, subject to certain conditions. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the role is fully onsite at CERN. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this job is SO-LS-OL-2026-76-LD. The position is part of the Support Services field, specifically within Finance, HR, Legal, and Procurement. CERN offers a competitive salary that is tax-free and increases with relevant experience. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year, plus an additional two weeks of annual closure. Comprehensive health insurance coverage is provided for employees and their families, along with a pension fund membership. Additional benefits include family, child, and infant monthly allowances, as well as a relocation package depending on individual circumstances.