Two postdoctoral fellowships are awarded each year by the CERN Non-Member State Postdoc Fellowship Programme in Theoretical Physics. The Fellowship is granted for two years and can exceptionally be extended to a third year.
Application Deadlines:
- Limited Duration (LD) Staff Positions: Applications accepted year‑round; kept on file for 2 years.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships (CERN Fellowships): 3 November 2026 (23:59 CET) for fellowships starting in 2026.
- Marie Skłodowska‑Curie European Postdoctoral Fellowships: 16 June 2026 (CERN as host institution).
Tell Me About the Award Programme:
The CERN Theoretical Physics Department (CERN‑TH) offers two major opportunities:
- Limited Duration (LD) Staff Positions (5+1 years): Full‑time research roles for outstanding theorists in all areas of particle physics.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships (2–3 years): Prestigious fellowships for early‑career researchers in theoretical physics, open to both CERN member state nationals and non‑member state nationals.
Both programmes provide access to CERN’s vibrant research environment, visiting scientists, workshops, and collaborations with top theorists worldwide.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants with expertise in:
- Theoretical Particle Physics
- Quantum Field Theory
- String Theory
- Cosmology & Astroparticle Physics
- Mathematical Physics
Type:
- Research Staff Positions (5+1 years)
- Postdoctoral Fellowships (2–3 years)
Who can apply?
- LD Staff Positions: Outstanding researchers in theoretical particle physics, broadly defined.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships: Early‑career researchers (PhD holders or near completion) from CERN member states and non‑member states.
- Special Fellowships: Marie‑Curie Fellows, ERC‑funded Fellows, and CKC Fellowship (for South Korean nationals).
How Are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence and research contributions.
- Fit with CERN‑TH’s research priorities.
- References (3 required for LD staff positions).
- Strong publication record and potential for leadership in theoretical physics.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Member states and non‑member states worldwide.
- Specific fellowship tracks available for South Korean nationals (CKC Fellowship).
Where is the award taken?
- CERN Theoretical Physics Department, Geneva, Switzerland.
How Many Awards?
- LD Staff Positions: Regular openings, multiple appointments.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships: Several awarded annually; typically 10–20 fellows.
What is the benefit of the award programme?
- LD Staff Positions: 5‑year contracts (extendable to 6 years), full‑time research, stable funding, access to CERN’s global network.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships: 2‑year contracts (extendable to 3 years), competitive salary, research support, participation in workshops and collaborations.
- Marie‑Curie/CKC Fellowships: Additional funding opportunities through external sources.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- LD Staff Positions: 5 years (extendable to 6).
- Postdoctoral Fellowships: 2 years (extendable to 3).
Required Documents:
- LD Staff Positions: CV, list of references (3 names + emails).
- Postdoctoral Fellowships: CV, academic record, references, and research statement.
How to Apply:
- Nominations for LD staff positions can be sent to [email protected].
- Submit application via CERN‑TH portal.
- Provide CV and references (LD staff positions).
- Apply for fellowships by 3 November 2026 (23:59 CET).
- For Marie‑Curie Fellowships, apply by 16 June 2026 (CERN as host).
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
