Technical Studentship
Job description
About the role
CERN is a leading international research organization dedicated to advancing the understanding of fundamental physics through large-scale experiments and theoretical inquiry. The Technical Studentship position offers a hands-on opportunity for students to contribute to real projects within this world-renowned facility located in Geneva. This role is specifically designed for individuals currently pursuing a degree in a technical or scientific discipline who wish to gain practical experience in a large-scale research environment. The position is based at CERN headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and is offered as a full-time engagement with a structured learning component.
Key facts
What you'll do
Support ongoing technical projects within CERN's research divisions by assisting senior staff members with daily tasks and key deliverables throughout the project lifecycle.
Contribute to the installation, configuration, and routine maintenance of both hardware and software systems that are used in physics experiments and detector operations.
Participate actively in the testing and calibration procedures for detector components and the associated data acquisition equipment used in experimental setups.
Help prepare comprehensive technical documentation, including written reports, engineering diagrams, and standard operational procedures for internal review and reference by team members.
Collaborate closely with engineers and scientists across multidisciplinary teams to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues that arise during project work.
Attend regular project meetings and provide clear updates on progress, challenges encountered, and preliminary findings to supervisors and fellow team members.
Gain direct exposure to large-scale accelerator operations and the complex infrastructure that supports particle physics research activities at the facility.
Apply theoretical academic knowledge to hands-on practical problems, bridging the gap between classroom learning and meaningful real-world application in a research setting.
Assist with the preparation and execution of test campaigns, recording observations and results in a systematic and organized manner for subsequent analysis.
Support the integration of new components into existing experimental setups, ensuring that all connections and configurations meet established technical specifications and safety standards.
Requirements
Currently enrolled in a relevant undergraduate or graduate degree program in a technical or scientific field of study, with a strong academic record.
Demonstrated interest in physics, engineering, or a closely related discipline through completed coursework, laboratory work, or independent research projects.
Ability to commit to a full-time schedule for the entire duration of the studentship placement without interruption.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the capacity to work independently on complex and multifaceted technical challenges.
Effective written and verbal communication skills for productive collaboration with international colleagues and diverse research teams.
Willingness to learn new tools, procedures, and methodologies in a fast-paced and dynamic research environment on site.
A strong foundation in mathematics and physics, demonstrated through academic performance and relevant coursework in quantitative subjects.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, adapting to shifting priorities and project demands.
Nice to have
Prior experience with programming languages commonly used in scientific computing or data analysis applications.
Familiarity with laboratory equipment, electronics, or instrumentation beyond what is covered in standard coursework.
Previous internships or research placements in a technical or industrial environment that involved hands-on work.
Knowledge of version control systems such as Git and familiarity with collaborative software development workflows used in technical environments.
Experience with data visualization tools and the ability to present findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Skills & tools
Proficiency in at least one programming language such as Python, C, or C++ for scripting and automation tasks.
Experience with data analysis frameworks and scientific computing libraries commonly used in physics research.
Understanding of electronics principles and circuit design fundamentals relevant to experimental apparatus.
Familiarity with Linux-based operating systems and command-line workflows for daily computing tasks.
Ability to use standard office and documentation tools for report writing, presentations, and data organization.
Basic knowledge of networking and IT infrastructure concepts to support technical operations.
Working knowledge of data formats and file management conventions common in scientific computing and experimental data recording.
Practical notes
The position is located at CERN headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and requires regular on-site presence throughout the engagement.
This is a full-time role and is not offered as a remote or hybrid work arrangement.
The compensation details are not listed in the available information; interested candidates should inquire directly with CERN regarding salary and benefits.
Candidates should be aware that CERN operates on an international scale, and the working language across departments is English.
About the company
CERN runs the biggest particle physics lab globally. Founded in 1954, headquarters sit in Meyrin near Geneva, on the France Switzerland border. Membership includes 25 nations. Israel joined in 2013 and resides outside Europe. United Nations General Assembly status is observer. Scientific exploration drives operations. International collaboration defines culture. Roles span engineering, computing, and research. Opportunities attract diverse talent. Ambitions center on advancing knowledge. Work happens at the intersection of theory and experiment, supported by shared infrastructure and open science principles.