CERN Doctoral Student Program 2026 in Switzerland (Fully Funded)

CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2026 in Switzerland (Fully Funded) Apply for fully funded scholarships from here.

Overview

• Host Country: Switzerland

• Host Institution: CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research)

• Available Programs: Doctoral (Ph.D.) only

• Application Deadline: 16 November 2025

See Also: Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2026 in Germany (Fully Funded)

What is the CERN Doctoral Student Programme?

The CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2026 is a fully funded international research opportunity in Switzerland for students pursuing doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees. It offers a prestigious chance for selected Ph.D. scholars to complete their thesis research under the supervision of world-class scientists and engineers at one of the most advanced research facilities in the world.

If you are a Ph.D. student looking for a high stipend scholarship in Europe, especially in a STEM field, CERN offers an incredible fully-funded opportunity with a monthly allowance, travel reimbursement, and access to cutting-edge research environments.

This program is open for various research fields including engineering, computing, applied physics, materials science, radiation protection, and other technical domains.

Scholarship Coverage (Fully Funded Benefits)

The CERN Doctoral Programme is among the highest paying Ph.D. scholarships in Europe and includes:

• A monthly allowance of CHF 3,891 (Swiss Francs), free from local taxes.

• Full health insurance coverage under CERN’s scheme.

• A travel allowance to support relocation expenses.

• Paid leave (2.5 days per month).

• Possibility of family or child allowances in specific cases.

• Renewable contract (initially 12 months, up to 36 months total).

This is a fully funded Ph.D. program in Switzerland, allowing students to focus solely on their research without financial burdens.

Also Check: University of Science and Technology Scholarships 2026 in Korea (Fully Funded)

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

You are eligible for the CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2026 if you:

1. Are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State.

2. Are already enrolled or are about to be enrolled in a doctoral program (Ph.D.) at a recognized university.

3. Plan to complete all or part of your thesis research at CERN.

4. Have a good working knowledge of English or French.

5. Do not specialize purely in theoretical or experimental particle physics (this program is focused on technical and engineering disciplines).

If you’re seeking Ph.D. scholarships for international students in Europe, this is a perfect opportunity for those in engineering, information technology, applied sciences, and related fields.

Fields of Research

This program supports doctoral students in a wide range of disciplines, including:

• Applied Physics

• Computer Science and Information Technology

• Electrical and Electronics Engineering

• Mechanical and Civil Engineering

• Instrumentation for Accelerators and Experiments

• Radiation and Environmental Protection

• Materials Science

• Ultra-High Vacuum Systems

• Science and Technical Communication

• Surveying and Metrology

These areas are ideal for students who want to work on innovative research projects in highly specialized technical environments.

Erasmus Mundus MAGMa Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Documents:

   • Updated CV (English or French)

   • Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)

   • Proof of current or upcoming enrollment in a doctoral program

   • Motivation statement showing your research interests and fit with CERN

   • At least two reference letters from academic supervisors or professors

2. Fill Out the Application:

   • Provide personal and academic details

   • Upload all required documents

   • Optionally, indicate a preference for specific research projects (if available)

3. Submission Deadline:

   • All applications must be submitted before 16 November 2025

4. Selection Process:

   • The selection process will be carried out over a few months, with final decisions expected by the end of February 2026.

If you’re interested in fully funded Ph.D. positions in Europe without IELTS, and you meet the basic language and academic criteria, this program is an ideal match.

Required Documents Checklist

To apply successfully, prepare the following:

• CV / Resume

• Academic transcripts (translated if necessary)

• Proof of Ph.D. enrollment or acceptance letter

• Two or more academic references

• Passport or national ID

• Motivation letter describing your interest and thesis alignment with CERN

All documents should be in English or French. Make sure to scan and save them in PDF format.

Important Dates

• Application Open: Currently open

• Deadline to Apply: 16 November 2025

• Evaluation Period: November 2025 to February 2026

• Result Announcement: End of February 2026

• Start Date (if selected): Varies depending on individual arrangements

FAQs – CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2026

1. Can students from all countries apply?
Only students from CERN Member or Associate Member States are eligible. Make sure to verify if your country qualifies.

2. Is this a fully funded Ph.D. program?
Yes. This scholarship includes a monthly stipend, travel allowance, and health insurance. However, it does not cover university tuition fees.

3. Can I apply if I’m just starting my Ph.D.?
Yes. As long as you are enrolled in a doctoral program at the time your CERN association begins.

4. What about English proficiency?
A formal language test is not required, but a good working knowledge of English or French is essential for communication and research.

5. Can I do part of my research at my home university?
Yes. CERN allows up to 12 months of special leave to conduct research at your home institution, with the rest of the work completed at CERN.

6. Does CERN provide housing?
Housing is not included, but support may be available in locating accommodation.

Why You Should Apply

The CERN Doctoral Programme 2026 offers not just funding but a life-changing research experience. Students become part of international teams working on some of the world’s most complex scientific problems. This is not just a scholarship – it’s a gateway to the global scientific community and a high-paying Ph.D. opportunity in Europe.

Students who aim to work in top scientific laboratories, tech companies, or academic institutions after their Ph.D. will benefit immensely from this program.

This scholarship is ideal for students searching for:

• Ph.D. scholarships in Switzerland

• Fully funded research fellowships in Europe

• Engineering scholarships for Ph.D. students

• Scholarships without IELTSHigh stipend Ph.D. positions abroad

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Conclusion

The CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2026 in Switzerland is an exceptional, fully funded research opportunity for highly motivated Ph.D. students in technical, scientific, and engineering disciplines. With a generous monthly stipend, cutting-edge facilities, and access to some of the world’s best researchers, CERN offers more than a scholarship – it offers a world-class research experience.

Apply before the deadline and take the next step toward a bright academic and professional future.
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