CERN Doctoral Student Programme

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research organization established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. Founded in 1954, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from around the world, making it a hub for international collaboration in physics and engineering. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, utilizing the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study fundamental particles. Diversity has been a core value of CERN since its inception, and it continues to be integral to its mission and operations.

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 provide students with the opportunity to engage in advanced studies in Physics, Engineering, and Computer Science while gaining world-class exposure and training at CERN. Students will work towards their PhD thesis at their home institution while spending one year at CERN, primarily involved in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) experiments. The program is structured to enhance the students' academic and professional development, allowing them to acquire skills and knowledge that they can bring back to their home countries. The initiative 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.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Participants in the CERN Doctoral Student Programme will be expected to engage in research that contributes to their PhD thesis, which may involve collaboration with CERN staff and other researchers. They will have the opportunity to participate in various scientific and technological activities at CERN, including but not limited to particle physics, applied physics, engineering, information technology, and materials science. Students will be required to maintain regular communication with their home university and ensure that their research aligns with their doctoral studies. They will also need to document their progress and findings, participate in seminars and workshops, and contribute to the collaborative environment at CERN.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the CERN Doctoral Student Programme, applicants must be nationals of South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Rwanda, or Uganda, and must be enrolled in a PhD program in a relevant field at a higher education institution in one of these countries. They must demonstrate a commitment to their studies and have a solid academic background, including coursework that supports their research. Additionally, applicants must have a good command of English and/or French, as these are the working languages at CERN. It is important that the home university supports the student's participation in the program, ensuring that the research conducted at CERN contributes to the PhD thesis.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be currently enrolled in a PhD program in fields such as physics, engineering, computer science, or related disciplines. The educational background should include relevant coursework that provides a strong foundation for the research to be conducted at CERN. The home university must be affiliated with the corresponding experiment collaboration if the thesis work is related to an experiment at CERN.

Experience:
Applicants should have begun their doctoral studies at the time of application, demonstrating a commitment to their academic and research pursuits. While specific prior experience in research may not be mandatory, a strong academic record and relevant coursework are essential to ensure that candidates are prepared for the challenges of conducting research at CERN.

Languages:
A good knowledge of English and/or French is mandatory for applicants. Proficiency in either language is essential for effective communication within the international environment at CERN. While not mandatory, additional language skills may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The program offers a contract of association for one year, starting in late 2026 and no later than March 2027, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years. 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 also 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 tuition fees, and no allowances will be paid during periods when students are not at CERN.