Experimental Physicist (EP-DI-2026-29-LD)

Company Description

At CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

Job Description

Introduction:

You will be part of the Experimental Physics (EP) Department, which carries out basic research. This Department aims at providing a stimulating scientific atmosphere and remains an important reference centre for the European physics community.

Functions:

• Contribute to particle physics experiment projects at CERN.
• Participate in the design and development of experiments and detectors.
• Support the operation and performance of detector systems.
• Analyse experimental data and contribute to physics results.
• Collaborate with international teams and document results.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Physics or a related field.

Experience:

• You are towards the beginning of your career, but have already demonstrated some years of post-doctoral experience in experimental particle physics.
• Experience in data analysis and online/offline software.
• Demonstrated competence in detector hardware and experimental instrumentation.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of electromagnetic radiation propagation and interaction with matter.
• Physics analysis and experimental particle physics.
• Particle detectors and interaction of particles with matter.

Behavioural competencies:

• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.
• Building Relationships: relating well to all people regardless of category/level within the Organisation.
• Working in the Interest of the Organisation: actively promoting safety and encouraging others to do the same; respecting safety rules and procedures.

Language skills:

• Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Additional Information

You will be required the following documents for your application (to be uploaded as PDF files):

• A Curriculum Vitae.
• A list of up to ten most-important publications indicating where you have been a principal contributor or co-author, indicating your contribution to each publication in a couple of lines.
• A short (half-page) description of your research interests, indicating what part of the CERN scientific programme you are interested in joining.
• Three recent letters of recommendation (less than one year old), to be uploaded separately by your reference letter writers. You will only receive a link to request your three reference letters confidentially once you have fully submitted your application. Please allocate sufficient time for your letter writers to upload their letters before the publication closing date.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organisation. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 06.09.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Hybrid

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-DI-2026-29-LD

Field of work: Experimental Physics

Benchmark Job Title: Research Physicist

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 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, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern