The CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2027 offers doctoral students an opportunity to conduct research in an international scientific environment at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, in Switzerland. The programme allows eligible PhD candidates to collaborate with experienced scientists, engineers and technical specialists while working on research connected to their doctoral thesis.
Selected candidates can receive a monthly allowance of 3,907 Swiss francs, tax-free, alongside paid leave, health insurance coverage and other benefits subject to applicable conditions. The programme is suitable for doctoral researchers in physics, engineering, computer science and related scientific disciplines.
The application deadline is 16 October 2026.
About the CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2027
CERN is an international research organization known for its work in particle physics, advanced scientific technology and engineering. Its Doctoral Student Programme enables eligible PhD students to undertake research at CERN in collaboration with their home universities.
Participants can spend up to 36 months at CERN, contributing to research projects while developing the knowledge and practical experience needed to complete their doctoral studies.
The programme provides an opportunity to work in a multicultural research environment, exchange ideas with specialists and contribute to scientific and technological projects.
Benefits of the CERN Doctoral Student Programme
Successful applicants may receive the following benefits:
- Monthly allowance: CHF 3,907, tax-free.
- Paid leave: 30 days annually, plus a two-week annual closure.
- Health insurance: Coverage through CERN’s health insurance scheme, with the applicable contribution deducted from the allowance.
- Family allowance: A possible supplement depending on individual circumstances.
- Travel assistance: Travel expenses to Geneva may be covered, subject to applicable conditions.
- Research experience: Access to an international scientific and engineering environment.
- Programme duration: An initial 12-month contract, renewable for up to 36 months, with arrangements allowing a maximum period of four consecutive years to accommodate time at the home university.
The expected start date is 1 April 2027. The position is fully onsite in the Geneva area, Switzerland, with a standard working week of 40 hours.
Research Fields and Responsibilities
The CERN doctoral studentship is intended for candidates whose PhD research aligns with CERN’s scientific and technical activities.
Relevant fields include:
- Applied physics and theoretical physics.
- Electrical, mechanical and other engineering disciplines.
- Computer science and computing.
- Scientific software development and data-related research.
- Experimental technologies and related applied sciences.
Doctoral students will conduct research in collaboration with CERN and their home universities, contribute to ongoing projects, document their findings and work with multidisciplinary teams.
The specific responsibilities depend on the research area and assigned project.
Who Can Apply for the CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2027?
Applicants must meet CERN’s nationality, academic and research requirements.
To qualify, candidates generally must:
- Be a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State, subject to the programme’s current nationality restrictions.
- Already be enrolled in a relevant doctoral programme and have begun their PhD studies at the time of application.
- Have a university that supports their participation and agrees that the research conducted at CERN will contribute to their doctoral thesis.
- Be studying physics, engineering, computing or a related discipline relevant to CERN’s activities.
- Have a good command of English or French.
- Demonstrate strong research foundations, curiosity, precision and the ability to work effectively in an international team.
CERN has stated that applications from Pakistani, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot and Croatian nationals cannot currently be considered because the applicable associate-membership limits have been reached. Applicants should verify the latest nationality conditions on the official website.
Important: This opportunity is intended for students who are already pursuing a PhD. It is not a general scholarship for applicants seeking admission to a new doctoral programme. Meeting the academic requirements alone does not guarantee eligibility if the nationality conditions are not satisfied.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents for their CERN application:
- An updated CV or resume in English or French.
- Any additional documents relevant to their research experience and qualifications.
- An academic reference letter, if available.
- An academic transcript, if available.
Applicants should follow the instructions on the official vacancy page and submit any supporting materials requested during the application process.
How to Tailor Your CV for CERN
A strong CV should clearly demonstrate your suitability for a scientific research placement.
- Highlight your PhD research: Explain your research topic, objectives, methodology and progress.
- Emphasise technical skills: Include relevant programming languages, laboratory techniques, engineering tools, simulation software or data-analysis methods.
- Show research achievements: Mention publications, conference presentations, academic projects and relevant awards where applicable.
- Demonstrate collaboration: Include examples of teamwork, interdisciplinary research or work with international colleagues.
- Use relevant keywords: Incorporate terms such as applied physics, scientific computing, engineering research, data analysis and experimental methods where they accurately describe your experience.
Keep your CV concise, factual and focused on the research area relevant to CERN. Do not include skills or achievements you cannot substantiate.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2027-1 is 16 October 2026.
The expected start date is 1 April 2027. Applicants should submit their applications before the deadline and verify any updates on CERN’s recruitment platform.
How to Apply for the CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2027
Interested candidates should apply online through CERN’s official recruitment system.
- Review the eligibility criteria, including nationality and current PhD enrolment requirements.
- Prepare your CV and any relevant supporting documents.
- Visit the official vacancy page and read the complete job description.
- Complete the online application and provide accurate information about your academic background and research.
- Submit your application before 16 October 2026.
Important Disclaimer: OpportunityShape shares scholarship, research and career opportunities for informational purposes. We are not affiliated with CERN and do not guarantee selection, employment, funding or travel assistance. Allowances, benefits and eligibility conditions are subject to CERN’s official terms. Applicants should confirm all requirements and deadlines through the official recruitment website before applying.
