Research Fellowship: Applied Physics and Engineering

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter – fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

You will carry out post‑doctoral research activities in the field of applied physics and engineering within CERN’s Experimental Physics (EP) Department. You will contribute to the design, development, deployment and operation of physics experiments or experimental setups, with activities spanning detector technologies, material science, mechanical engineering, electronics and computing. You will work on advanced experimental projects in a highly collaborative and international environment, contributing to large‑scale research infrastructures and experimental programmes.

You are applying to a fellowship programme rather than to a specific job; the information provided in your application will be used to identify suitable projects, which will be discussed and refined together with you if your profile is retained.

• Conduct post‑doctoral research activities in applied physics and engineering within CERN’s Experimental Physics (EP) Department.
• Contribute to the design, development, deployment and operation of physics experiments or experimental setups.
• Collaborate with physicists, engineers and technical experts on large‑scale experimental projects involving advanced technologies.
• Contribute to the analysis, documentation and dissemination of results within the experimental collaborations.

• Strong background in applied physics, engineering or a closely related field.
• Research experience in applied physics and engineering, ideally linked to the design, development or operation of experimental systems.
• Interest in pursuing a career in research or academia and in taking an active role within a research project.
• Motivation to contribute to large‑scale experimental programmes in an international research environment.

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills applied to experimental systems and technologies.
• Ability to work collaboratively within large, international and multidisciplinary teams.
• Effective communication in a scientific and technical environment.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to shared project objectives.
• Ph.D. in Applied Physics and Engineering.

• Final date to receive applications: 30/08/2026 at 23:59 (Geneva Time)
• Ideal start date: 01.01.2027
• Contract duration: 24 month contract, with a possible extension up to 36 months.
• Weekly working hours: 40
• Job flexibility: fully onsite
• Location:
  
  Geneva, Switzerland
• Job reference: EP‑2026‑2/Cat2

• A monthly stipend between 7004–7425 Swiss Francs per month (tax‑free) depending on your degree.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children) and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
• On‑the‑job and formal training including language classes.

• National of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. A few exceptions are possible annually.
• By the Final date to receive applications, have a Ph.D. (or will obtain it within six months) and no more than three years’ research experience after completion of the Ph.D. degree. Candidates with up to six years may exceptionally be considered.
• Have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• Good knowledge of English or French.
• Ensure that your application is submitted under the field of work indicated in the position title, as Experimental Physics, Applied Science and Engineering and Theoretical Physics are separate recruitment processes. All open positions within the programme are available on the Research Fellowship Programme page.