CERN - Administrative Student Programme

CERN Administrative Student Programme

For a paid internship lasting between 2 and 12 months at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland, you will receive tax-free net allowance of about 2,687 EUR per month (3,486 Swiss francs). In addition to your salary, you will receive 30 days’ paid holiday per year, as well as a two-week company holiday period. You will also be covered by CERN’s own health insurance scheme, with the contribution deducted from your salary. You may receive a travel allowance to Geneva when you start work, as well as a family allowance depending on your circumstances. CERN is the European Organisation for Nuclear Research. You will work full-time on specific projects within the administrative or operational departments, for example in finance, human resources, procurement, logistics, communications or legal affairs. You will support experienced staff and learn how the administration maintains the day-to-day running of a large research organisation.

Who can apply

• Field of study: You are studying public administration, business administration, finance, human resources, law, logistics, procurement or a related subject.
• Study stage: At the time of your application, you must have completed at least 18 months (3 semesters) of your studies in this department. Doctoral students and those holding a doctorate are not eligible to apply.
• Enrolment: You will remain enrolled as a full-time student throughout the work placement.
• Nationality: You are a national of a CERN Member State or an Associated Member State. Nationals from Pakistan, Lithuania, Latvia, Cyprus and Croatia cannot currently be considered, as their quota has already been filled.
• Language: You speak English or French well. An IELTS certificate is not required.
• Training link: Your university either requires you to undertake a work placement or recommends that you do so.

How to apply

You should apply online via the CERN careers portal and upload your CV in English or French. A reference and a letter of recommendation are optional. If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to an online interview with the recruitment manager to assess whether you and the role are a good match.

How realistic are your chances?

CERN is a well-known name, so these positions attract applicants from across Europe, and competition is fierce. Your chances improve the better you are suited to a particular field and the more clearly you can demonstrate that your degree programme includes a work placement. Eligibility is restricted to nationals of CERN member states who have completed at least three semesters; the pool of applicants is therefore narrower than for fully open programmes.