CERN Short-Term Internship (STAG) 2026 – Paid Technical & Administrative Internship in Switzerland

CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Geneva, Switzerland, offers the Short-Term Internship (STAG) 2026 for students in technical, engineering, or administrative fields. This paid internship provides a unique opportunity to take your first steps into the world of work at one of the world’s most prestigious research centers.

You will join a team of experts, contribute to real projects, and develop new skills in an international, multicultural environment. The ideal start date is 1 September 2026, and the internship lasts between 1 and 6 months. If you are looking for similar opportunities in Europe, explore fully funded scholarships in Switzerland for international students.

Internship Overview

• Location: Geneva, Switzerland (CERN headquarters)

• Ideal Start Date: 1 September 2026

• Contract Duration: 1 to 6 months

• Work Mode: Fully Onsite

• Monthly Allowance: CHF 1,593 (net)

• Paid Leave: Entitlement for contracts of 4 months or more

• Application Deadline: 1 November 2026, 23:59 Geneva Time

For students seeking other funded programs across Europe, check latest scholarships in Europe for all nationalities.

What You Will Do

As a STAG intern at CERN, you will:

• Take your first steps into the world of work at a place where learning and discovery go hand in hand

• Join a team of experts and contribute to real projects that connect science, technology, and innovation

• Learn new skills, explore your interests, and see how your studies come to life

Your Responsibilities

• Support experienced professionals in their daily activities

• Learn and apply new tools or methods relevant to your area of study

• Contribute to small‑scale projects under the guidance of your supervisor

• Collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and share ideas in an international environment

Eligibility Criteria – Important

Nationality Requirements

You must be a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State.

Important: Currently, CERN cannot consider applications from Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.

Academic Requirements

• You are currently pursuing a post‑secondary education degree (Technical/Administrative diploma, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree)

• You are required or encouraged by your university to complete a practical training period

• You must remain enrolled as a full‑time student during your studentship

Language and Skills

• Good knowledge of English or French

• Fundamental knowledge in your field of study

• Curiosity, precision, and a proactive attitude towards learning

• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a multicultural team

Required Documents for Application

To complete your application, you will need:

• Your CV (in English or French)

• Any document you consider relevant to your application (e.g., motivation letter, academic transcripts, reference letters)

Global Benefits at CERN

• Monthly net allowance of 1,593 Swiss Francs (sufficient for living expenses in Geneva)

• Paid leave entitlement for contracts of 4 months or more

• The opportunity to work in a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge

• Access to cutting‑edge research and world‑class facilities

For applicants interested in other research internships in Europe, see Switzerland's latest scholarships in 2026.

How to Apply – Step by Step

Step 1: Visit the official CERN careers website and locate the Short‑Term Internship (STAG) 2026 application portal.

Step 2: Check that you meet all eligibility criteria, especially the nationality requirements (CERN Member or Associate Member State). Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals cannot apply for 2026 start dates.

Step 3: Prepare your CV (English or French) and any supporting documents you wish to include.

Step 4: Complete the online application form with your personal, academic, and professional details.

Step 5: Upload your CV and supporting documents.

Step 6: Submit your application before 1 November 2026, 23:59 Geneva Time.

Step 7: If shortlisted, you may be contacted for further steps.

There is no application fee.

For additional financial aid options across Europe, explore financial aids for students in Europe.

Why Choose CERN?

• World‑renowned research center – Push the frontiers of science and technology

• Multicultural environment – Work alongside professionals from diverse backgrounds

• Hands‑on experience – Contribute to real projects that shape our understanding of the universe

• Geneva location – Live and work in one of Europe’s most vibrant international cities

• Career boost – CERN internships are highly valued by employers worldwide

Final Thoughts

The CERN Short‑Term Internship (STAG) 2026 is a fantastic paid opportunity for students in technical, engineering, or administrative fields to gain hands‑on experience at one of the world’s most iconic research institutions. With a generous monthly allowance of CHF 1,593 and the chance to work alongside experts from around the globe, this internship can be a transformative step in your career.

The application deadline is 1 November 2026. However, note that Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals cannot apply for 2026 start dates due to quota limitations. Apply online today.

For a complete list of open internships and scholarships in Europe, visit list of all open scholarships in Europe.

Apply Now for CERN Short-Term Internship 2026