CERN Doctoral Students Scholarhip Program 2026 in Switzerland (Fully Funded)

The CERN Doctoral Students Program 2026 in Geneva is now open for applications. This prestigious fully funded PhD opportunity allows international students from CERN Member and Associate Member States to conduct cutting-edge research in physics, engineering, and computing. If you are looking to pursue a PhD in Europe with world-class facilities, this is one of the best research opportunities in 2026.

Why Choose CERN Doctoral Program 2026?

CERN is one of the world’s leading research organizations, known for groundbreaking discoveries in particle physics. Through this program, doctoral students can work in a highly collaborative, innovative, and multicultural environment while contributing to advanced scientific projects.

Participants will spend up to 36 months working on their PhD thesis while gaining hands-on experience in real-world research and engineering challenges.

Program Details

• Host Organization: CERN

• Location: Geneva

• Program Type: Fully Funded Doctoral Program

• Duration: 12 to 36 months

• Application Deadline: 30 April 2026

• Start Date: August 2026

The CERN Doctoral Students Program offers excellent financial support, making it one of the top fully funded scholarships in Europe:

• Monthly allowance of 3907 CHF (tax-free)

• 30 days paid leave + 2 weeks annual closure

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage

• Travel expenses to Geneva covered

• Family allowance (if applicable)

• Contract up to 3 years (extendable for PhD completion)

• PhD

Applicants can apply in multiple fields aligned with CERN’s research areas, including:

• Applied Physics

• Engineering

• Computer Science / Computing

• Data Science and Technology

• Related technical disciplines

Responsibilities

Selected candidates will:

• Conduct doctoral research in collaboration with CERN and their home university

• Contribute to ongoing scientific and engineering projects

• Present and document research findings

• Work with international experts and researchers

Open to applicants of all nationalities.

To apply for the CERN PhD Program 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State

• Be enrolled in a doctoral (PhD) program at the time of application

• Have a background in physics, engineering, computing, or related fields

• Possess good knowledge of English or French

• Have support from their home university

Required Documents

Applicants need to submit:

• Updated CV (in English or French)

• Supporting documents (if any)

• Academic reference letter (optional)

• Academic transcripts (optional)

Work Environment at CERN

Working at CERN means being part of a diverse and inclusive international community. You will collaborate with top scientists, engineers, and innovators while contributing to research that expands our understanding of the universe.

CERN promotes innovation, teamwork, and diversity, making it one of the most sought-after research institutions globally.

How to Apply for CERN Doctoral Program 2026?

Interested candidates can apply online through the official CERN careers portal before the deadline. Ensure all required documents are prepared and submitted on time.