Join CERN Theory
The CERN Theory Department (CERN-TH) offers research opportunities at different career stages, from postdoctoral fellowships to senior staff positions. Researchers at CERN-TH benefit from a vibrant scientific environment, extensive research support, close interactions with experimental and accelerator physicists, and a rich programme of visitors, workshops, and seminars.
About the positions
CERN-TH regularly recruits outstanding researchers in all areas of theoretical particle physics for Limited Duration (LD) staff positions.
Key features
- Initial appointment of five years, normally extended to a sixth year
- Full-time research position
- Dedicated research funding and travel support
- Extensive scientific visitor and workshop programme
- Collaborative environment with leading theorists from around the world
How to apply
Applicants should submit:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Names and email addresses of three referees
The Search Committee may contact referees directly.
Nominations
Nominations are strongly encouraged and may be submitted to:
th.ld.staffsearch@cern.ch
All information regarding applicants, nominees, and nominators is treated in strict confidence.
Ongoing recruitment
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and retained for up to two years for consideration in future searches.
For enquiries, contact:
th.ld.staffsearch@cern.ch
Diversity and inclusion
Diversity has been an integral part of CERN’s mission since its foundation. We welcome applications from researchers of all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive scientific environment.
CERN-TH welcomes applications for all ERC grant schemes.
Researchers interested in selecting CERN as a host institution should contact us at least four months before the relevant ERC deadline.
For further information, please contact Valerie Domcke.
CERN-TH recruits several postdoctoral fellows each year through the CERN Fellowship Programme.
Appointment duration
- Initial contract of two years
- Normally extended to a third year
- Most fellowships begin in October
Eligibility and application
Researchers from CERN Member States and non-Member States are invited to apply.
Deadline: 2 November 2026, 23:59 CET
Please note that fellowship deadlines are firm and applications submitted after the deadline cannot be considered.
Postdoctoral offer timeline
CERN-TH is a signatory of the Theoretical High Energy Physics Groups Common Deadline for Postdoc Offers.
As a result, candidates are not required to make decisions on offers before 31 January of the year following the application cycle.
In addition to CERN Fellowships, CERN-TH hosts postdoctoral researchers funded through external programmes, including:
- Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
- ERC-funded positions
- National fellowship schemes
- Other international funding programmes
Please note that the total period spent as a fellow at CERN may not exceed three years, regardless of the funding source.
Researchers interested in applying for a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship with CERN as the host institution are encouraged to contact us early.
Expression of interest deadline around May need to be submitted here in due time.
For questions, please contact Valerie Domcke.
Researchers holding South Korean nationality are encouraged to explore the CKC Fellowship Programme.
For further information, please contact:
Korean Physical Society
office@kps.or.kr