The Next Generation Trigger Project 2026 is a fully funded doctoral research program at CERN in Switzerland, open to applicants from both Member and Non-Member States. Selected candidates spend up to 36 months conducting their doctoral thesis research within CERN’s internationally renowned science, technology, and engineering environment, receiving a tax-free monthly allowance of CHF 3,907 alongside comprehensive health insurance, paid leave, and travel support. No application fee is required and all expenses are covered by CERN. The application deadline is 30 April 2026.
Program Highlights
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opportunity Type | Fully Funded Doctoral Research Program |
| Organising Body | CERN — European Organisation for Nuclear Research |
| Mode | Hybrid |
| Duration | 12 months, renewable up to 3 years (maximum 4 consecutive years) |
| Location | CERN, Geneva, Switzerland |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 April 2026 |
About the Program
The Next Generation Trigger Project 2026 CERN is a doctoral research opportunity embedded within one of the world’s most advanced scientific institutions, enabling selected candidates to carry out their PhD thesis in direct collaboration with CERN and their home university simultaneously. The program is designed for early-stage doctoral researchers whose fields align with CERN’s core research domains — including applied physics, computing, engineering, and related technical disciplines — and who are seeking an internationally recognised environment to accelerate their scientific development.
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualification
- Must have started or be about to start a doctoral program at a recognised university
- Field of study must align with CERN’s research areas, including physics, engineering, computing, or related applied sciences
- Open to applicants from both CERN Member and Non-Member States worldwide
Experience & Other Conditions
- Must have a good working knowledge of English or French
- The applicant’s home university must formally support their participation, confirming that research conducted at CERN will contribute toward the doctoral thesis
- CV must be submitted in English or French; additional supporting documents are optional but recommended
Benefits & Funding
| Component | Detail |
|---|---|
| Monthly Allowance | CHF 3,907 per month (tax-free) |
| Paid Annual Leave | 30 days per year |
| Annual Closure | 2 weeks of additional annual closure |
| Health Insurance | Coverage under CERN’s comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme |
| Family Supplement | Additional subsistence allowance available depending on individual circumstances |
| Travel Expenses | Travel costs to Geneva upon joining CERN covered, subject to individual circumstances |
| Contract Duration | Initial 12-month contract, renewable up to 3 years with a maximum span of 4 consecutive years |
Selection Process
- Online application submitted via the official CERN Next Generation Trigger Project portal before 30 April 2026
- Evaluation based on CV, academic background, and alignment of research field with CERN’s core domains
- Home university agreement confirming support for CERN-based doctoral research is required
- Academic reference letter and transcript are optional but strengthen the application
- No application fee is required at any stage
How to Apply
- Visit the official CERN Next Generation Trigger Project 2026 application portal.
- Prepare your CV in English or French, clearly outlining your academic background and research experience.
- Secure formal support from your home university confirming that research at CERN will contribute to your doctoral thesis.
- Optionally include an academic reference letter, academic transcript, and any other documents relevant to your application.
- Submit your completed application online before the 30 April 2026 deadline; no application fee is required.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| All Applicants | No application fee required |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opening | March 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 April 2026 |
| Contract Start | Subject to individual confirmation |
| Initial Contract Duration | 12 months, renewable up to 3 years |
Important Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Next Generation Trigger Project 2026 CERN?
Doctoral candidates from CERN Member and Non-Member States who have started or are about to begin a PhD in physics, engineering, computing, or related applied sciences are eligible, provided their home university formally supports their CERN-based research.
What is the monthly allowance for the Next Generation Trigger Project 2026 CERN?
Selected participants receive CHF 3,907 per month on a tax-free basis, alongside 30 days of paid leave, comprehensive health insurance, a family supplement where applicable, and travel support to Geneva.
How long does the program last?
The initial contract is 12 months, renewable up to 3 years, with the flexibility to spread the placement across a maximum of 4 consecutive years to accommodate university study periods.
Is university support mandatory to apply?
Yes — the applicant’s home university must formally agree that research conducted at CERN will contribute to their doctoral thesis; without this institutional support, candidates are not eligible to participate.
Is there an application fee for the Next Generation Trigger Project 2026 CERN?
No — the Next Generation Trigger Project 2026 CERN requires no application fee, and all program-related expenses are fully covered by CERN for selected doctoral researchers.