The CERN Post Career Break Fellowship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for scientific and engineering graduates returning to research after a career hiatus. This prestigious fellowship provides both full-time and part-time positions to work on groundbreaking projects at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. With a commitment to pushing the boundaries of science, this fellowship lets you stay at the forefront of technological innovation in a globally renowned research environment.
At CERN, you’ll engage in cutting-edge research with access to state-of-the-art particle accelerators. The fellowship emphasizes global collaboration and sustainability, aligning with CERN’s mission to advance fundamental physics and prepare the next generation of researchers. By joining this international program, you’ll contribute to significant scientific discoveries and innovations with a three-year commitment.
CERN’s fellowship also extends beyond physics, covering various disciplines like Data Science, Engineering, and Health. If your expertise doesn’t directly relate to particle physics, you can still apply by demonstrating how your skills align with CERN’s diverse projects. This fully funded opportunity provides a competitive salary and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the world of research. You can also apply for the Chevening LSE Fellowship 2026 in UK (Fully Funded)
Post Career Break Fellowship 2026 Details:
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Host Organization: CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Fellowship Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Duration: 24 months to 36 months
- Eligibility: International Students
Benefits of CERN Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland:
- Monthly stipend between 6,194 and 6,808 Swiss Francs (net of tax).
- Health coverage for you, your spouse, and your children under CERN’s health scheme.
- Membership in the CERN Pension Fund.
- Employment contract of up to 2 years, with a possible extension to 3 years.
- On-the-job formal training and in-house language courses for French and/or English.
- Potential family allowance or installation allowance based on circumstances.
- Airfare allowance at the start and end of the fellowship contract.
- Paid leave of 30 days per year.
- A remarkable opportunity to learn and work in Switzerland.
Check Wilson Center Fellowship Program 2026 in the USA (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Criteria for the Post Career Break Fellowship:
- Applicants should be on a career break for personal reasons, such as family responsibilities or health issues, for a minimum of two years.
- Changing study fields or periods of unemployment do not qualify as a career break.
- Candidates must have an experienced graduate profile with an MSc degree.
- Minimum of 2 to 6 years of career experience is required.
- PhD holders should have around 3 years of experience in their field.
- For experimental or theoretical physics, a Research Fellowship profile with a PhD and approximately six years of post-PhD experience is required.
- CERN staff members are ineligible to apply for this fellowship.
Required Documents:
- Updated CV or resume.
- Valid passport.
- Letter detailing your experience, career break, and how your research aligns with CERN’s projects.
- Scanned PDF of your recent relevant degree transcript.
Deadline:
The application deadline to apply for the CERN Post Career Break Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland is September 7th at midnight (12.00 AM CEST).
Check ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026 in Switzerland (Fully Funded)
How to apply for the CERN Post Career Break Fellowship 2026?
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, including your updated CV, a letter detailing your experience and research relevance, a recent degree transcript, and a valid passport.
- Online Application: Visit the CERN careers website or fellowship portal. Complete the online application form with your personal details, academic background, and professional experience.
- Submit Documents: Upload your prepared documents as specified in the application guidelines. Ensure that all files are in the required format and size.
- Research Proposal: If applicable, include a research proposal or project summary outlining your planned work and its relevance to CERN’s projects.
- Review and Submit: Double-check all entered information and uploaded documents for accuracy. Submit your application before the deadline.
- Follow-up: Monitor your email and the application portal for any updates or additional instructions from CERN regarding your application status or next steps.
