CERN Post Career Break Fellowship 2026 – Switzerland (Fully Funded)

CERN Post Career Break Fellowship 2026 – Switzerland (Fully Funded)

The CERN Post Career Break Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications! This fully funded fellowship in Geneva, Switzerland is tailored for individuals who have taken a career break for personal reasons (such as family, caring responsibilities, or health issues) and are now ready to return to science or engineering.

This is an excellent 24–36 month opportunity to re-enter the workforce, contribute to world-class research, and enhance your career while benefiting from CERN’s supportive environment.

Program Details

• Host Country: Switzerland

• Location: CERN, Geneva

• Duration: 24 months (extendable up to 36 months)

• Deadline: 7th September 2025

• Earliest Start Date: 1st January 2026

Financial Benefits

• Monthly stipend: 6,287 – 6,911 CHF (tax-free)

• Comprehensive health insurance (covers family)

• CERN Pension Fund membership

• Installation grant + family, child, and infant allowances (if eligible)

• Travel expenses covered (start and end of contract)

• 30 days of paid leave per year

• Access to on-the-job training, formal courses, and language classes (English/French)

 Eligibility Criteria

• Career break of at least 2 years for personal reasons (family, health, caring responsibilities).

• Must be an Experienced Graduate:

  • MSc degree + 2–6 years of experience, or

  • PhD + up to 3 years of relevant experience.

• For experimental or theoretical physics: PhD + max 6 years post-PhD experience required.

• Applicants must be nationals of CERN Member or Associate Member States.

• Not eligible: CERN Staff members.

 Required Documents

• Updated CV

• Cover Letter (explain career break, experience, and research interests)

• Scanned qualification certificate (PDF)

Application Process

Apply online via the official CERN website before 7th September 2025.