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Why CERN Theory?
Joining CERN-TH means becoming part of one of the world’s leading centres for theoretical particle physics. Researchers benefit from close interactions with CERN’s experimental programmes, a highly international scientific community, extensive visitor programmes, and a stimulating environment that fosters collaboration across disciplines and career stages.
Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity has been an integral part of CERN’s mission since its foundation and remains a core value of the Organization. We believe that a diverse and inclusive scientific community is essential to excellence in research and innovation, and we strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Limited-Duration (5+1 Year) Research Staff Positions
The CERN Theory Department (CERN-TH) welcomes applications from outstanding researchers in all areas of theoretical particle physics, broadly defined.
Limited-Duration (LD) staff appointments are for an initial period of five years and are normally extended by one additional year. These positions are dedicated to full-time research. CERN-TH offers a vibrant scientific environment, substantial long-term research funding, a strong international community of resident theorists, and an active programme of visitors, workshops, and scientific events.
How to Apply
Candidates may apply through the online application form, submitting:
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- The names and email addresses of three referees, whom the Search Committee may contact directly
Nominations are also warmly encouraged and may be submitted to th.ld.staffsearch@cern.ch.
All information concerning applicants, nominees, and nominators will be treated in the strictest confidence.
As CERN-TH conducts regular searches for LD staff positions, applications remain active for two years from the date of submission and may be considered in subsequent recruitment rounds.
For further information, please contact th.ld.staffsearch@cern.ch.
ERC Grants
CERN-TH actively supports researchers applying for European Research Council (ERC) grants. Interested applicants should contact us at least four months before the relevant EU deadline. For further information, please contact Valerie Domcke.
Postdoctoral Positions
Each year, CERN-TH hosts several CERN Fellows through the CERN Fellowship Programme.
In addition, the department welcomes researchers supported by external funding schemes, including Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships, ERC grants, and national fellowship programmes. While it is possible to combine CERN Fellowships with externally funded fellowships, the total duration of a fellowship appointment at CERN may not exceed three years.
Application Deadlines
Applicants are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the application deadlines. Every year, highly qualified candidates are unable to be considered because their applications arrive after the deadline. Unfortunately, these deadlines are set centrally and cannot be extended.
Please note that although CERN-wide fellowship calls with March deadlines are available, these do not include theory fellowships.
CERN-TH Fellowships
CERN-TH Fellowships are awarded for an initial period of two years and are normally extended to a third year. Fellowships generally begin in October.
Researchers of both CERN Member States and non-Member States are eligible to apply.
For fellowships commencing in 2027, applications should be submitted through the designated application portal. The application deadline is:
2 November 2026, 23:59 CET
Postdoctoral Offer Policy
CERN-TH is a signatory to the Theoretical High Energy Physics Groups Common Deadline for Postdoctoral Offers. In accordance with the current agreement, postdoctoral candidates are not required to accept an offer before 31 January of the following year, allowing them sufficient time to consider all opportunities.
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowships
CERN-TH encourages applications for European Postdoctoral Fellowships under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)programme.
Researchers interested in proposing CERN as the host institution should submit an expression of interest by 16 June 2026. For further information, please contact Valerie Domcke.
CKC Fellowship Programme
Researchers of South Korean nationality are encouraged to apply for the CKC Fellowship Programme.
For further details, please contact the Korean Physical Society at office@kps.or.kr.