If you paused your scientific or engineering career for personal reasons such as childcare, caregiving, or health, and you are ready to return to research while bringing your family along, CERN’s Post-Career-Break (PCB) Fellowship provides one of the best opportunities. Based in Geneva, this fellowship offers a paid contract and support for relocation, including permits that allow many fellows to live in Switzerland with their spouse or partner and children.
What is the Post-Career-Break Fellowship?
The PCB Fellowship is designed to help professionals in science or engineering restart their careers after an extended personal break. Contracts are offered full-time or part-time, usually for 6 months up to 36 months, with the possibility of extension depending on the project. Fellows are integrated into CERN teams across various fields such as physics, engineering, IT, and support services.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must have taken a genuine career break for personal reasons, usually lasting at least two years. Applicants should hold an MSc or PhD in a relevant field, with limited years of post-qualification experience depending on the profile. CERN welcomes applicants from many nationalities, and selections are made based on skills, experience, and fit with available projects.
Key Benefits of the Fellowship
The fellowship comes with a range of benefits, making it attractive for those with families:
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Employment contract for 6–36 months.
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Monthly stipend typically ranging from CHF 5,200 to CHF 8,100, depending on experience and position.
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Health coverage under CERN’s scheme, which can extend to spouses and children.
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Pension fund membership, paid leave, family and child allowances, and relocation support.
In short, this is a paid role with staff-level benefits, not an unpaid research program.
Bringing Your Family Along
One of the highlights of the PCB Fellowship is the support for family relocation. CERN assists with the necessary paperwork and permits for your spouse and children to reside in Switzerland.
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Family members are issued residence permits linked to the fellow’s contract.
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Spouses and partners may qualify for a Ci permit, which allows them to take up paid employment in Switzerland.
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The rules vary depending on nationality and canton, so it’s important to confirm details early.
Visa and Permit Timeline
If you require a visa to enter Switzerland, start the application process as early as possible. Applications should ideally be submitted three months before your intended arrival. Processing times vary, but family reunification permits can take several weeks to a few months. For non-EU nationals, family paperwork should begin as soon as your own permit is granted.
How to Apply and Bring Your Family
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Find a PCB vacancy on CERN’s official jobs site that matches your skills.
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Submit your application through the recruitment portal with a tailored CV and cover letter.
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If selected, CERN HR will guide you on the documentation required for family visas and permits.
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Begin family reunification paperwork early, including marriage and birth certificates, proof of housing, health coverage, and income documents.
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Apply for a spouse work permit (Ci permit) if your partner plans to work in Switzerland.
Cost of Living and Family Life in Switzerland
While the stipend is generous, Switzerland—especially Geneva—is known for its high cost of living. Plan carefully for housing, schooling, healthcare, and everyday expenses. CERN provides health insurance coverage, relocation allowances, and child benefits, which help offset some costs.
Schools in Geneva include both public and international options, with French as the main language of instruction in public schools. Learning basic French is highly recommended for both fellows and family members to ease integration.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Clearly explain the reason for your career break and emphasize any skills you maintained or developed during that time.
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Highlight your motivation to return to research and how your expertise fits the project you are applying for.
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Choose referees who can attest to your abilities and potential for reintegration.
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Be realistic and transparent about your availability and family needs.
The CERN Post-Career-Break Fellowship is more than a research opportunity, it is a pathway to re-establish your career while giving your family the chance to experience life in Switzerland. With a paid contract, health and social benefits, relocation support, and family-friendly policies, this program makes it possible to restart your career without leaving your loved ones behind.
