The CERN Technical Student Programme offers a unique chance for undergraduate students in Applied Physics, Engineering, and Computing to gain real work experience at one of the world’s leading science research centers. CERN is famous for its large particle accelerators and cutting-edge technology that explores the universe’s basic building blocks.
This internship lasts from 4 to 12 months and is designed for Bachelor’s or Master’s students who need practical training or want to complete their final project. You will work alongside top scientists and engineers in a multicultural environment in Geneva, Switzerland.
The program covers various technical fields, including applied physics, electrical/electronics engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, IT, mathematics, robotics, and material sciences. It provides an opportunity to learn and contribute to projects that have a global impact on science and technology.
CERN selects about 80 students three times a year. You must be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State, have completed at least 18 months of study, and be a full-time student during the internship. Good English or French skills are required.
Quick Overview of CERN Technical Student Programme 2025
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Host Organization: CERN, Geneva
- Duration: 4 to 12 months
- Deadline: 11 August 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Fields: Applied Physics, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, IT, Mathematics, Robotics, Material & Surface Science
- Allowance: 3452 Swiss Francs/month (net of tax)
- Additional Benefits: Travel allowance, health insurance, paid leave, family supplements (if applicable)
- Eligibility: Undergraduate students from CERN member or associate states, with a minimum 18 months of study completed
- Application: CV in English or French, transcripts, and reference letters are recommended
Perks of Technical Internships at CERN
- Monthly allowance of about 3450 Swiss Francs (net of tax)
- Travel allowance to and from Geneva
- Health insurance coverage under CERN’s scheme
- Paid leave of 2.5 days per month
- Contract duration between 4 to 12 months, flexible to your needs
- Additional financial support if you are married or have children
- Work in an internationally renowned research center
- Gain hands-on experience with advanced technologies and projects
- Network with leading scientists, engineers, and other students worldwide
Benefits of the Technical Student Programme CERN
- Advance your practical skills by working on real scientific projects
- Build a strong CV with experience at a top global research organization
- Enjoy the vibrant international community and diverse workplace
- Develop problem-solving and teamwork skills in a high-tech environment
- Open doors to future research or engineering careers worldwide
- Experience living and working in Geneva, one of Europe’s best cities
- Receive mentorship from experts in your field
- Benefit from exposure to cutting-edge technology and innovation
Exclusions of the CERN Technical Student Programme 2025
- Students specializing in theoretical or experimental particle physics cannot apply
- Family members’ costs (housing, travel) are not covered
- Traineeship agreements required by universities must use CERN’s standard form (no external agreements signed)
- Living costs beyond the stipend are the student’s responsibility
Eligibility Criteria of Technical Internships at CERN
- Must be a citizen of a CERN Member or Associate Member State
- Completed at least 18 months or 3 semesters of undergraduate study by the November 2025 selection round
- Registered as a full-time student during the internship period
- Proficient in English or French for communication
- Fields: Applied Physics, Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil/General Engineering, IT, Mathematics, Robotics, Material and Surface Science
- Must not be specializing in theoretical or experimental particle physics
Important Dates for CERN Technical Student Programme 2025
- Application Deadline: 11 August 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Application Review: August to November 2025
- Interviews (if applicable): Between August and November 2025
- Selection Results: End of November 2025
Internship Period: Flexible, 4 to 12 months depending on your university requirements
How to Apply for a CERN Technical Studentship
- Prepare your CV in English or French (PDF format)
- Gather other documents such as academic transcripts and reference letters (recommended)
- Visit the CERN careers page
- Select the studentship(s) that match your profile and interests
- Submit your application online before the deadline
- If shortlisted, be ready for possible phone or video interviews
- Wait for the final selection notification by the end of November 2025
Required Documents for Technical Student Internships
- CV in English or French (PDF)
- Academic transcripts (recommended)
- Reference letters (recommended)
- Any additional supporting documents as required by your specific studentship application
Available Openings for the CERN Technical Student Programme
Applied Physics
Link: Technical Studentship – Applied Physics
In this program, students will work on real-life projects in applied physics and engage with state-of-the-art scientific instruments. They will have the opportunity to contribute to large-scale experiments involving particle accelerators and detectors. This is an invaluable experience for students who are passionate about understanding the fundamental laws of nature.
IT, Mathematics & Robotics
Link: Technical Studentship – IT, Mathematics & Robotics
Students selected for this program will dive into computational techniques, data science, robotics, and machine learning. They will work on developing algorithms, optimizing system performances, and building robotic solutions. This is ideal for those interested in the intersection of technology and innovation.
Electrical/Electronics Engineering
Link: Technical Studentship – Electrical / Electronics Engineering
This program allows students to participate in designing, testing, and implementing electrical and electronic systems. Students will be exposed to cutting-edge technology in signal processing, power systems, and circuit design. They will have the chance to work on projects critical to CERN’s mission.
Mechanical Engineering
Link: Technical Studentship – Mechanical Engineering
This studentship is geared towards students in mechanical engineering who want to work on large-scale scientific instruments and complex mechanical systems. Participants will engage in the design, testing, and optimization of mechanical components that are essential for the smooth operation of CERN’s experiments.
General/Civil Engineering
Link: Technical Studentship – General / Civil Engineering
Students in civil engineering will have the opportunity to contribute to infrastructural projects, such as building maintenance, structural analysis, and resource management at CERN. This program provides hands-on experience in managing complex engineering projects in a global scientific institution.
Material & Surface Science
Link: Technical Studentship – Material & Surface Science
This program is perfect for students specializing in materials science. Students will engage in analyzing and improving materials used in high-tech environments. They will study surface properties, durability, and material performance under extreme conditions, contributing to the long-term sustainability of CERN’s scientific equipment.
For more details and to apply, visit the official CERN Technical Student Program Careers page.
