CERN Doctoral Student Programme

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. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's mission is to advance knowledge in the field of particle physics and to foster international collaboration in scientific research. The organization has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, promoting diversity as a core value since its inception. CERN is committed to providing a unique environment where innovation and collaboration thrive, and it plays a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of the universe through groundbreaking research.

Job Overview:
The CERN Doctoral Student Programme is designed for PhD students from specific Non-Member States (NMS) in Africa, including South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Rwanda, and Uganda. This program aims to support advanced studies in Physics, Engineering, and Computer Science by providing students with the opportunity to work at CERN for one year while completing their PhD thesis at their home institution. The program is part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s Africa-UK Physics Partnership Programme, funded by the UK Government’s International Science Partnerships Fund. Students will gain world-class exposure, supervision, and training primarily within the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) experiments, while also engaging in various scientific and technological activities at CERN. This unique opportunity allows students to enhance their knowledge and skills in cutting-edge research and technology, which they can bring back to their home countries, contributing to the academic community and capacity building in their regions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a participant in the CERN Doctoral Student Programme, you will be expected to engage in research that contributes to your PhD thesis while working under the supervision of CERN staff. Your responsibilities will include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with international teams on various projects related to particle physics, applied physics, engineering, and information technology. You will also be required to maintain regular communication with your home university and ensure that your research aligns with the requirements of your PhD program. Additionally, you will participate in seminars, workshops, and other academic activities at CERN to further your professional development and contribute to the scientific community.

Required Qualifications:
To be eligible for the CERN Doctoral Student Programme, candidates must be nationals of South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Rwanda, or Uganda, and must be registered in a PhD program in a relevant field at a higher education institution in one of these countries. Applicants should have completed at least one year of their PhD studies, demonstrating a commitment to their academic pursuits. It is essential that the thesis work is related to CERN's research areas, and the home university must be affiliated with the corresponding experiment collaboration. Candidates must possess a good knowledge of English and/or French, as these are the primary languages used at CERN.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in a doctoral program in a relevant field such as physics, engineering, computer science, or a related discipline. They should have begun their doctoral studies at the time of application and have completed at least one year of coursework to ensure they have the necessary foundation for their research. The home university must support the student's participation in the program, confirming that the research conducted at CERN will contribute to the PhD thesis.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of one year of experience in their PhD program, which ensures that they have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to undertake research at CERN. Experience in relevant research areas, such as particle physics, engineering, or computer science, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to their academic and professional development through previous research or academic projects.

Languages:
A good knowledge of English and/or French is mandatory for this position, as these languages are used for communication and documentation at CERN. Proficiency in either language will facilitate collaboration with international teams and enhance the overall research experience. While knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial, it is not a requirement for this position.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for the CERN Doctoral Student Programme is one year, with a start date in late 2026 or no later than March 202

• The contract may be renewable up to three years, allowing for a maximum duration of four consecutive years to accommodate the student's time at their home university. Participants will receive a monthly allowance of 3907 Swiss Francs (net of tax), along with a travel allowance and potential family supplements depending on individual circumstances. CERN will provide comprehensive health insurance coverage, and students will be entitled to 2.5 days of paid leave per month. It is important to note that CERN will not cover any costs related to the home university or reimburse tuition fees during periods when students are not at CERN.