The CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026 is a prestigious fully funded research opportunity for PhD students who want to advance their academic and professional careers at one of the world’s most renowned scientific institutions. This program enables doctoral candidates to conduct part or all of their PhD research at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland, while working on innovative projects in physics, engineering, and computing.
Open to talented and motivated students from eligible countries, the program is designed to strengthen research skills, provide hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies, and support long-term career development in a highly competitive global research environment.
About CERN and the Doctoral Student Program
CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) is globally recognized as a leader in particle physics and advanced scientific research. Through its Doctoral Student Program, CERN offers PhD students the opportunity to collaborate with world-class scientists and engineers, contribute to large-scale international experiments, and gain exposure to a truly multicultural research setting.
Participants relocate to Geneva and become part of CERN’s dynamic research community, making this program an ideal pathway for aspiring researchers seeking real-world doctoral training and international experience.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Host Organization: CERN
- Study Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 23 February 2026
Benefits of the CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026
Selected candidates will receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Monthly tax-free allowance of 3,891 Swiss Francs
- Opportunity to work in advanced research fields at the forefront of science and technology
- Travel allowance to cover relocation costs to and from CERN
- Full health insurance coverage during the program period
- 2.5 days of paid leave per month (approximately 30 days per year)
- Initial 12-month contract, renewable up to a maximum of 36 months
- Possibility to spread the stay over several years in coordination with the home university
- Additional family support for married participants and those with children
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State
- Be currently enrolled in, or about to begin, a doctoral (PhD) program at a recognized university
- Ensure that the research conducted at CERN forms part or all of their PhD thesis
- Have the approval and cooperation of both:
- A university thesis supervisor
- A CERN supervisor
- Demonstrate a good command of English or French
Required Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application including:
- Valid passport
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Experience or employment letters (if applicable)
- English language certificate (if applicable)
- One or more reference letters
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply for the CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026
The application process is fully online. Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official CERN careers application page
- Review the full program description, eligibility rules, and requirements
- Prepare all required documents in advance
- Create an account or log in via the SmartRecruiters platform
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details
- Upload all documents in the required format
- Carefully review your application before submission
- Submit your application before 23 February 2026
👉 Applications must be submitted through CERN’s official website only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026?
It is a fully funded doctoral research program that allows PhD students to conduct their thesis research at CERN while collaborating with leading scientists and engineers.
How long does the program last?
The program runs for 12 to 36 months, with contracts renewed annually. The stay can be spread over up to four years to balance research at CERN and the home university.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be nationals of CERN Member or Associate Member States and enrolled in a PhD program related to CERN’s research areas.
What financial support is provided?
Participants receive a monthly allowance of 3,891 CHF, health insurance, paid leave, travel expenses, and possible family allowances.
What kind of research work will participants do?
Doctoral students work on real CERN projects in physics, engineering, or computing, contributing directly to their PhD thesis and ongoing experiments.
Which languages are required?
A strong working knowledge of English or French is required.
Where does the program take place?
The program is conducted onsite at CERN in Geneva, with close collaboration in multidisciplinary research teams.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply for the CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026 is February 23, 2026 (23:59 Geneva time).
Final Note
The CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026 in Switzerland is a rare opportunity for PhD students to gain hands-on research experience at a world-leading scientific organization while receiving full financial support. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this program can be a powerful step toward a global research career.
