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Contracts & Career at CERN
This page is for general informational purposes only. Always consult CERN HR or the Staff Association for up-to-date information on your contractual situation.
Contract Types
CERN offers several contract types, each with different conditions and durations. Staff contracts -- either indefinite or limited duration -- are the most stable, with full access to all benefits. Fellows hold limited-duration contracts of up to 3 years, aimed at post-doctoral or early-career professionals. Doctoral students participate in a programme of up to 3 years while remaining enrolled at a home university.
In addition, associates are personnel sent by member state institutes to work on specific CERN projects, and users are affiliated researchers who use CERN facilities but are not direct employees. Each category carries different rights, benefits, and administrative obligations.
Staff Contracts
Staff contracts typically start as limited duration (LD), which can be extended up to a maximum of 8 years in total. During this period, you may apply for conversion to an indefinite duration contract, though this depends on your performance and CERN's operational needs.
CERN staff are classified into grades (reflecting level of responsibility) and steps (reflecting experience), with step advancement occurring annually. Several career paths exist -- technical, administrative, and research -- each with its own progression criteria.
Fellowship Programme
The CERN Fellowship Programme targets post-doctoral or early-career professionals in physics, engineering, computing, or other relevant disciplines. Contracts last a maximum of 3 years and cannot be extended beyond this limit. The selection process is highly competitive, with periodic calls and evaluation committees.
It is important to know that the fellowship is a one-time opportunity -- you cannot re-apply for the same programme after completing it. Fellows receive a monthly stipend plus allowances for installation, travel, and, where applicable, family expenses.
Doctoral Students
The CERN Doctoral Student programme allows doctoral research to be carried out at CERN facilities for a maximum of 3 years. Students must remain enrolled at their home university throughout the entire period. Doctoral students receive a monthly stipend and allowances, though the conditions differ from those of fellows.
Extension Rules
Limited duration staff contracts are reviewed at the 5-year mark, at which point extension or conversion to an indefinite contract depends on performance and CERN's needs. Fellowship contracts, by contrast, cannot be extended beyond 3 years in total -- there are no exceptions to this rule.
Rules also exist on the maximum cumulative duration of employment at CERN under different contract types. Additionally, mandatory gaps may be required between certain consecutive contract types, which is worth keeping in mind when planning your career trajectory.
Career Development
All staff participate in the annual MARS (Merit Appraisal and Recognition of Staff) review system, which evaluates performance and sets objectives for the coming year. CERN also offers extensive training opportunities through the Learning Hub, covering technical skills, languages, and professional development.
Internal mobility between departments and projects is actively encouraged to broaden experience and skills. Promotion criteria include performance, competencies, experience, and availability of positions at higher grades. CERN also provides career counselling services to help staff plan their professional path.
Leaving CERN
When your time at CERN comes to an end, notice periods vary by contract type and seniority -- check your contract or consult HR for exact timelines. End-of-contract procedures include returning equipment, closing accounts, completing pension formalities, and updating your permits. Depending on your contract type and length of service, you may be entitled to end-of-contract indemnities.
Your pension options depend on your years of service (see the Pension Fund page for details). Expatriate staff may also be entitled to a repatriation grant at the end of their contract. Finally, CERN issues a certificate of employment detailing your position and period of service, which is useful for future job applications.
Practical Tips
Make sure you understand your contract type and its duration limits from day one. If you are a fellow or doctoral student, plan ahead for the end of your contract well in advance. Take advantage of CERN's career counselling services to map out your professional path, and keep careful track of your MARS reviews and professional achievements throughout your career.