Technical Studentship

Benefit

You get a monthly net allowance of about 3,700 EUR (3,486 Swiss Francs) for a placement of 4 to 12 months at CERN, the European particle physics laboratory near Geneva, Switzerland. On top of the allowance you get CERN's health insurance, with a contribution deducted from your pay automatically. You also get 30 days of paid leave a year plus a two-week annual closure, and your travel costs to Geneva when you start. A family supplement is possible depending on your situation. You work on real projects with CERN's scientists and engineers and apply your studies to practical problems in a large international research lab.

Eligibility

• Field of study: You study applied or experimental physics, mechanical, civil, electrical or electronics engineering, materials or surface science, data science, software engineering or IT, mathematics, or health, safety and environment.
• Study progress: You have completed at least 18 months (3 semesters) of your subject by the time of selection, and you stay enrolled full time during the placement.
• Level: You are a bachelor's or master's student. PhD students and PhD holders cannot apply.
• Nationality: You are a national of a CERN member or associate member state (25 member states plus Brazil, Chile, India, Ireland, Türkiye and Ukraine). Nationals of Pakistan, Lithuania, Latvia, Cyprus and Croatia cannot apply right now, as their intake quota is full.
• Languages: You speak good English or French.

How to apply

You apply online through CERN's careers portal with a CV in English or French. A reference letter and transcript are optional. Applications reopen on 6 August. If you are shortlisted, you have an online interview with the hiring manager before any offer is made.

How realistic are your chances?

CERN is a globally known name, so a paid placement there attracts strong applicants from across its member states, and competition is real. Your prospects improve if your field and study stage match one of the listed areas closely and you can point to relevant hands-on or project work. Apply soon after the window reopens, and check that your nationality is currently eligible before you invest the effort.