The CERN Post-Career Break Fellowship 2026 offers an extraordinary opportunity for scientists and engineers returning to research after a professional break. Hosted by CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, this fellowship provides both full-time and part-time positions to engage in groundbreaking projects at one of the world’s leading research centers.
If you are committed to advancing science and technology, this program will allow you to contribute to cutting-edge discoveries while working in a highly collaborative and innovative environment in Switzerland.
About the Fellowship
Participants will gain access to CERN’s state-of-the-art particle accelerators and laboratories. The program emphasizes international collaboration, sustainability, and innovation, aligning with CERN’s mission to advance fundamental physics while nurturing the next generation of global researchers. The fellowship requires a commitment of up to 36 months.
Beyond physics, the fellowship also covers fields such as engineering, data science, health sciences, and applied technology. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply by showing how their expertise aligns with CERN’s wide-ranging projects.
Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly allowance between $7,820 and $8,595
- Comprehensive health coverage for fellows and their families
- Membership in the CERN Pension Fund
- Initial contract of 24 months, extendable up to 36 months
- On-the-job training and free language courses (French or English)
- Eligibility for family or installation grants depending on circumstances
- Travel allowance at the start and end of the fellowship
- One month of paid annual leave
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must have taken a career break of at least 24 months for personal reasons such as family or health
- Changing fields of study or unemployment alone does not qualify as a career break
- Must hold an MSc degree and have 2–6 years of professional experience
- PhD holders must have a minimum of 36 months of professional experience
- For experimental or theoretical physics applicants: PhD and six years of postdoctoral experience required
- Current CERN staff members are not eligible
Required Documents
- Updated CV or resume
- Valid passport
- Motivation letter outlining skills, experience, and alignment with CERN’s projects
- Academic transcripts of relevant degrees
- Optional: research proposal or project summary
How to Apply
- Prepare all required documents (CV, motivation letter, transcripts, passport)
- Visit the official CERN careers portal: CERN Fellowship Application
- Complete the online application form with personal and academic details
- Upload documents in the required formats
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Track application updates through email or the CERN portal
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is 7 September 2025, 12:00 AM CEST.
Conclusion
The CERN Post-Career Break Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for researchers returning to academia or professional science. With competitive benefits, global collaboration, and access to world-class facilities, it empowers fellows to contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge research in Switzerland.
FAQ
Who can apply for the CERN Post-Career Break Fellowship?
Scientists and engineers with an MSc or PhD degree who have taken a career break of at least 24 months for personal reasons.
What fields are eligible for this fellowship?
Fields include physics, engineering, data science, health sciences, and applied technology.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
Monthly allowance of $7,820–$8,595, health insurance, pension fund membership, paid leave, and travel support.
How long does the fellowship last?
Contracts are typically 24 months, extendable up to 36 months.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 7 September 2025 at midnight (12:00 AM CEST).