Research Fellowship: Theoretical Physics

You will join one of CERN’s theoretical physics research groups, if selected for this Research Fellowship, to develop and lead your own research programme at the frontier of fundamental physics. You will work in a highly collaborative and international environment, contributing to the development of theoretical models, performing analytical and computational research, and advancing the understanding of particle physics and related fields.

You will also be part of CERN’s vibrant scientific community through seminars, workshops, training activities and collaborative projects.

Your key tasks

• You conduct research in theoretical physics.
• You contribute to CERN’s theoretical physics programme by developing innovative theoretical approaches and advancing the interpretation of experimental results.
• You collaborate with theoretical and experimental physicists on research related to particle physics and fundamental interactions.
• You develop and pursue your own research interests within the framework of the Fellowship.

Your profile

• You hold a PhD in theoretical physics or have a scheduled PhD defence before taking up your appointment at CERN.
• You have no more than six years of research experience after completing your PhD.
• You have a strong background in theoretical particle physics or a closely related field.
• You have research experience aligned with the scientific activities carried out within CERN’s Theory Department.
• You are motivated to join a leading international research environment and contribute to high-impact scientific research.
• You are eager to develop and pursue your own research interests within the Fellowship framework.

Your Skills

• You have strong analytical and problem-solving skills in the context of theoretical physics.
• You are able to work collaboratively within large, international scientific teams.
• You communicate effectively in a scientific environment, including presenting and discussing research results.
• You can work independently while contributing to shared research objectives and collaborative projects.

Additional Information Application Deadline: 02.11.2026 at 23:59 CET Ideal start date: 01.10.2027 Contract duration: 24 month contract, with a possible extension up to 36 months.

Weekly Working Hours: 40

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Location: Geneva, Switzerland

Job Reference: TH-2026-1/Cat1

Global Benefits

• A monthly net stipend of either 7004 or 7425 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
• On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

• By the application deadline, you have a PhD in theoretical physics (or the defense date is already scheduled). In any event, you should have finished your PhD studies by the time you take up your appointment at CERN.
• By the start of your contract, you have no more than 6 years’ research experience after completion of your PhD degree.
• Please note that CERN Staff members are not eligible to apply for a Fellowship.
• This Vacancy Notice is for Theoretical Physics. If instead your field is Applied Science and Engineering, or Experimental Physics. please consult open positions within the programme available on the Research Fellowship Programme page.
• Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

• Your CV (English or French)
• A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your university (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
• A statement of research interests highlighting your plans for the research fellowship.
• Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than one year at the application deadline) outlining your academic and/or professional achievements, indicating the professional relationship from the referee to you. After submitting your application, you will receive a submission link to forward to your referees; letters must be uploaded confidentially before the closing date.

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