Early Career Professionals

About the role

CERN is offering an opportunity for early career professionals to join our team in Geneva, Switzerland. This role is designed for individuals with limited professional experience who are eager to learn and contribute to groundbreaking projects in the field of particle physics and technology. As part of this program, you will engage in various projects that provide hands-on experience and the chance to collaborate with leading experts in the scientific community. This position is ideal for those looking to kickstart their careers in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Participate in a variety of projects that may involve research, development, and technical support within CERN's diverse scientific landscape.
• Collaborate with experienced scientists and engineers, gaining insights into the workings of advanced technologies used in particle physics.
• Assist in the design, implementation, and testing of experimental setups and systems.
• Contribute to the analysis of experimental data, helping to draw meaningful conclusions from your findings.
• Engage in problem-solving activities, applying your academic knowledge to real-world challenges faced at CERN.
• Attend training sessions and workshops to enhance your skills and knowledge in relevant scientific and technical areas.
• Prepare reports and presentations to communicate your progress and findings to your team and other stakeholders.
• Network with professionals from various fields, expanding your understanding of interdisciplinary collaboration in scientific research.

Requirements

• Applicants must be citizens of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• Candidates should have no more than two years of professional experience following their graduation by the application deadline.
• A general secondary education diploma is required as the highest educational qualification.
• Individuals who have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract are not eligible to apply.
• Applicants holding a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree will not be considered for this position.
• Proficiency in English or French is essential for effective communication within the workplace.

Nice to have

• Experience or familiarity with laboratory techniques and experimental procedures in a scientific setting.
• Basic knowledge of programming languages or software tools relevant to data analysis and scientific research.
• Previous internships or academic projects related to physics or engineering.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Interest in collaborative research and a proactive approach to learning.

Skills & tools

• Familiarity with data analysis software and tools commonly used in scientific research.
• Basic understanding of experimental physics principles and methodologies.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, to articulate ideas and results clearly.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a diverse group of professionals.
• Problem-solving abilities, with a focus on finding practical solutions to technical challenges.

Practical notes

• The application deadline is December 31st, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
• The job reference for this position is ECP-Tech-2026/2.
• The initial contract duration is set for 24 months, with the potential for an extension up to a maximum of 36 months.
• To complete your application, you will need to submit a CV and a scanned PDF of your most recent relevant qualification.
• While spontaneous applications are allowed for individuals who meet the eligibility criteria, it is important to note that this does not guarantee an interview or response from hiring managers.

This role at CERN presents a unique chance to embark on a career in one of the world's leading scientific research organizations. By joining us, you will not only enhance your professional skills but also contribute to pioneering research that pushes the boundaries of our understanding of the universe. If you meet the eligibility requirements and are ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply and explore the possibilities that await you at CERN.