Scientific Associateship (Theoretical Physics)

What you'll do

You participate in CERN’s scientific programmes as an established and experienced scientist with an existing professional relationship with the Organization. You make use of CERN’s research facilities to contribute to theoretical particle physics activities, within the framework of CERN’s role as a European and global scientific centre.

Your responsibilities

• You carry out scientific activities in theoretical particle physics using CERN’s research environment.
• You contribute to theoretical particle physics programmes and related research activities.
• You engage with CERN theoretical physics teams and scientific programmes.
• You bring your experience and expertise to theoretical research and scientific collaboration at CERN.

Your profile

• You are an established and experienced scientist with a strong academic background in theoretical particle physics.
• You are actively involved in research and/or advanced academic activities in your field.
• You have an existing professional relationship with CERN or its theoretical physics programmes.
• You are interested in contributing to large-scale international scientific research activities.

Your skills

• You demonstrate strong analytical and theoretical expertise.
• You are able to contribute effectively to advanced theoretical research and scientific collaboration.
• You work comfortably in an international and research-driven environment.
• You communicate clearly and professionally in a scientific context, in English and/or French.

Additional Information

• Application Deadline: 15/03/2026 at 23:59 (Geneva Time)
• Ideal start date: 01/07/2026
• Contract duration: up to 12 months
• Weekly Working Hours: 40
• Job flexibility: Fully Onsite
• Job Reference: AGC-2026-1/SASS-TH

Global Benefits

• A subsistence allowance between 6683-9465 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your experience.
• 2,5 days per month of authorized absences provided your association contract lasts at least 4 months plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Family supplement to subsistence allowance, depending on your individual circumstances.
• Travel expenses to Geneva upon joining CERN, depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 24 months.

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

• You have a good knowledge of English.
• You remain employed by your home institute during your appointment at CERN.
• By the application deadline, you must be below the CERN retirement age.
• Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.
• Please ensure that your application is submitted under the field of work indicated in the position title, as Experimental Physics and Theoretical Physics are separate recruitment processes. All open positions within the associate programmes are available on the Associates Programmes page.

You will need these documents to complete your application

• Your CV (English or French)
• Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than one year at the application deadline) outlining your academic and/or professional achievements (optional for the specific vacancy in Theoretical Physics).
• A list of the 10 most relevant publications indicating the personal contribution in 2-3 lines each (optional for the specific vacancy in Theoretical Physics).

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