Short Term Internship 2026

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on home.cern.

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization.

One of CERN’s key missions is education. Our experts enjoy sharing their knowledge with committed and passionate students.

If you are an undergraduate student in a technical or administrative field, and you’re looking to spend a few months training on-the-job, imagine doing your internship at CERN in Geneva. An impressive addition to your CV!

We offer a limited number of placements in our practical training programme.

Duration 1 - 6 months.

!Important!: Please note that only nationals of CERN Member States or Associate Member States are eligible to apply. Applications from other countries will not be considered.

To qualify for an internship, you should meet the following requirements:

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• You are a full-time student (Technical/Administrative diploma, Bachelor or Master degree).
  • Please note that candidates studying for a PhD are not eligible for this programme.
• You are at least 18 years of age.
• Your main field of study is in one of the following areas: applied physics, computing, mathematics, electricity, electronics, mechanical or civil engineering, instrumentation, materials science, radiation protection, safety and environmental protection, surveying, ultra-high vacuum, scientific communication. Or in administrative fields such as: translation, advanced secretarial work, accounting, legal services, human resources, librarianship, logistics.
• You will remain a full-time registered student throughout the internship at CERN.
• You have good working proficiency in English and/ or French.

Important Information

• The duration of the internship is minimum 1 month and maximum 6 months.
• Your Educational Establishment / University must ensure you have full insurance cover valid in the Geneva area (France and Switzerland) for medical expenses, work and private accidents as well as any disability arising from professional and non-professional illness and accidents.
• You will receive a monthly allowance of 1,593 Swiss Francs for a full month of work. If you work less than a full month, the allowance will be adjusted proportionally.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, you will only be contacted if successful.

Please note that if a traineeship agreement is required by your Educational Establishment / University, as an international organisation CERN will not sign external documents. You will therefore be required to use the CERN traineeship agreement provided on https://cds.cern.ch/record/1994294/files/convention_stage_6mois_en.pdf.

How to apply

You need a CV in English or French (in a PDF format).

During the application process you will need to select your availability period for this internship.

Global Benefits

• A monthly allowance of 1,593 Swiss Francs.
• Entitlement to paid leave for contracts of 4 months or more.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here:careers.cern