Fully Funded Scholarships from CERN to Study in Switzerland
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, offers prestigious fully funded fellowships for those looking to continue their academic and research careers in Switzerland.
Overview of CERN Fellowships
The CERN Fellowships are designed for individuals who have taken a career break for personal reasons and wish to re-enter the workforce in a supportive and dynamic environment. These fellowships are not intended for those who have been unemployed or are seeking a change in their field of specialization. Instead, they are tailored for those who have paused their careers for reasons such as family responsibilities, health issues, or caregiving.
Key Features of the CERN Fellowship Program
- Full-time or Part-time Work: Fellows can choose to work either full-time or part-time, depending on their personal needs. This flexibility allows participants to balance their professional and personal responsibilities effectively.
- Program Flexibility: The program is specifically designed for individuals returning from a personal career break. It provides an ideal platform for reintegration into the workforce, without the pressure of changing one’s field of specialization.
- Integration into CERN Projects: Fellows have the option to join ongoing research projects at CERN or develop their own projects under the supervision of a team of expert researchers. This hands-on experience is invaluable for advancing one’s research skills and career prospects.
Financial Benefits
- 36-month Employment Contract: Fellows receive a long-term contract, ensuring financial and professional stability for up to three years.
- Monthly Salary: The fellowship offers a competitive monthly salary ranging from 6,194 to 6,808 Swiss Francs (net after tax). This substantial financial support allows fellows to focus on their research without financial worries.
- Internal Language Courses: To enhance communication skills, fellows have access to internal language courses in English and/or French, further enriching their experience at CERN.
- Comprehensive Health Plan: Fellows and their families are covered by a comprehensive health plan, along with membership in CERN’s pension fund, ensuring their well-being throughout their fellowship.
- Additional Allowances: Fellows receive various additional allowances, including a settling-in grant, family, child, and infant allowances, making it easier to manage living expenses in Switzerland.
- Travel Expenses: The program covers travel expenses related to the fellowship, ensuring that fellows can participate fully in all aspects of the program.
- Paid Leave: Fellows are entitled to 30 days of paid leave annually, allowing them to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum Two-year Career Break: Applicants must have taken a career break of at least two years for personal reasons, such as family responsibilities, health issues, or caregiving duties.
- Relevant Academic Background: Candidates must hold a degree in science or engineering with relevant experience in their field. For those applying for research fellowships in experimental or theoretical physics, a PhD is required, and post-doctoral experience should not exceed six years.
- CERN User Status: Applicants who are already registered as CERN users may be required to explain how their status aligns with the program's requirements.
- Not Available to Current CERN Employees: Current CERN employees are not eligible to apply for this fellowship program, ensuring that it is dedicated to those re-entering the workforce.
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining previous work experience and academic qualifications.
- Cover Letter: A cover letter explaining the applicant's career break, their interest in the fellowship, and how their research interests align with CERN's activities.
- Copy of Recent Qualifications: A copy of the most recent academic qualification, such as a bachelor’s degree or higher, as required by the program.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply for the CERN Fellowship program through the following link: