Study In Geneva: CERN’s Fully Funded PhD Program 2025 Accepting Applications

Cern announces fully funded Doctoral Student Program 2025 in Switzerland

Aspiring PhD students from across CERN Member States are being invited to apply for one of the most prestigious research opportunities in the world — the CERN Doctoral Student Program 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

This fully funded programme will allow successful candidates to work with top scientists at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) — a global centre for particle physics and one of the most respected research institutions on the planet.

“This is a fully funded opportunity for doctoral students to work at the cutting edge of science for up to 36 months,” the official notice posted by Scholarships Corner stated.

The programme is designed for PhD students whose research aligns with CERN’s scientific mission — exploring fundamental questions about the universe, matter, and energy.

Paid To Research In Geneva

Successful applicants will receive a monthly allowance of 3,891 Swiss Francs (around R79,000) to support their living expenses in Switzerland. The programme duration ranges from six months to 36 months, and students may complete the research component of their doctoral thesis during this time.

CERN also offers:

  • A travel allowance to cover relocation costs

  • A family supplement for married participants and those with children

  • Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of the programme

  • Two to five paid leave days per month

  • The option to split time between CERN and their home university, with total participation allowed for up to four years

“You will get to work and learn from the world’s renowned physicists and scientists which will add value to your research projects,” said the official programme description.

In addition to conducting research, participants will become part of an international and multicultural environment with access to cutting-edge technology, labs, and real-time experiments — including particle collision projects at nearly the speed of light.

Fields Covered By The Programme

The programme is open to PhD students in a wide array of disciplines, including:

  • Applied Physics

  • Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Electronics)

  • Computing and IT

  • Mathematics

  • Radiation Protection and Safety

  • Instrumentation for particle physics

  • Ultra-high Vacuum Systems

  • Surveying

  • Science Communication

  • Materials Science

  • Environmental Protection

“The CERN doctoral student program is an invitation to become a part of something unique on Earth,” the official call stated.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Be a national of a CERN Member State

  • Be currently enrolled in a PhD programme (or about to be enrolled)

  • Have a thesis topic relevant to CERN’s work

  • Have their PhD awarded by their home university, not CERN

  • Have a strong command of English or French

The application process includes:

  1. Completing the online form (via LinkedIn or Indeed)

  2. Submitting a CV, motivation letter, reference letter, and latest academic transcript

  3. Uploading all documents in English or French, in PDF format, properly labelled (e.g. “CV”, “Transcript”)

The deadline to apply is 11 August 2025 at 23:59 CET. Late applications will not be considered.

How To Apply

Interested students should begin their application online through the CERN Careers Portal. The process includes uploading supporting documents and completing detailed personal, academic, and research interest information.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare their files early and double-check submission requirements.

“This doctoral research opportunity will help to advance your knowledge in a genuinely unique organisation,” organisers added.

Why It Matters

This is not just a funding opportunity — it’s a chance to contribute to some of the most advanced scientific experiments happening in the world today. CERN is home to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and other major projects that continue to redefine modern physics.

With world-class supervision, access to unparalleled facilities, and a vibrant international community, the CERN Doctoral Student Program is one of the most coveted research fellowships in Europe.

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