CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2026

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established in 195

• It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and employs over 2,500 staff members, along with thousands of scientists and engineers from around the world. CERN's mission is to probe the fundamental structure of the universe using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its commitment to diversity, which has been a core value since its inception. CERN conducts groundbreaking research in particle physics, providing insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

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 and training primarily within the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) experiments, as well as other scientific and technological activities at CERN. This unique opportunity allows students to engage in cutting-edge research and technology, enhancing their skills and knowledge to bring back to their home countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Participants in the CERN Doctoral Student Programme will be expected to engage in research that contributes to their PhD thesis work. This may involve collaboration with CERN staff members, participation in experiments, and involvement in various scientific projects. Students will work under the supervision of both their home university and a CERN supervisor, ensuring a partnership that supports their academic and research goals. The program encourages students to immerse themselves in the diverse fields of particle physics, applied physics, engineering, information technology, and materials science, allowing them to contribute their knowledge and skills to ongoing projects at CERN.

Required Qualifications:
To be eligible for the program, applicants must be nationals of South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Rwanda, or Uganda, and must be registered in a PhD program in one of the relevant fields at a higher education institution in one of these countries. Students must demonstrate commitment and capacity through their coursework and research proposals. Additionally, the university must be affiliated with the corresponding experiment collaboration if the thesis work is related to an experiment at CERN. A good command of English and/or French is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must be enrolled in a PhD program in Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields at a recognized higher education institution in one of the eligible countries. This ensures that students have the necessary academic foundation to undertake research at CERN and fulfill the requirements of their PhD degree.

Experience:
While specific prior experience may not be required, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and commitment to their field of study. Experience in research projects, particularly those related to particle physics or engineering, will be advantageous and may strengthen the application.

Languages:
A good knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in French is considered an asset. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international environment at CERN.

Additional Notes:
The program offers a one-year contract of association starting in late 2026 or no later than March 2027, with a monthly allowance of 3907 Swiss Francs (net of tax). Additional benefits include a travel allowance, potential supplements for dependents, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and 2.5 days of paid leave per month. It is important to note that CERN will not cover costs related to the home university or reimburse tuition fees, and no allowance will be provided during periods when students are not at CERN. Applications must include a CV, a motivation letter, a statement of research interest, two letters of reference, a confirmation letter from the home university, a copy of the most recent academic transcript, and proof of enrollment in a PhD program. The application deadline is September 24th at 23:59 CET.