Cern Mission

What is CERN’s mission?

CERN explores what the universe is made of and how it works by providing a unique range of particle-accelerator facilities for world-class research in fundamental physics. Established in 1954 near Geneva, the laboratory brings people together across borders to advance science and technology, train new generations of physicists, engineers and technicians, and share the benefits of knowledge and innovation. Technology is central to this work, from accelerator and detector systems to high-performance computing, data science, software engineering and cybersecurity.

What is CERN’s vision?

CERN aims to remain at the forefront of particle physics by fully realising the scientific potential of the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider and preparing for the field’s next major research infrastructure. The 2026 European Strategy for Particle Physics identifies the electron–positron Future Circular Collider as the preferred next flagship project at CERN, with the ambition to deepen understanding of the Higgs boson, drive new technologies and train thousands of early-career scientists, engineers and technicians.

Working at CERN

Values

Commitment: Bring passion and determination to CERN’s mission and the pursuit of knowledge.

Professionalism: Approach every task with precision, expertise and responsibility.

Creativity: Use innovative thinking to explore fundamental questions and develop new technologies.

Diversity: Bring different cultures, perspectives and ideas together to strengthen innovation and collaboration.

Integrity: Work with ethical behaviour, intellectual honesty and personal accountability.

Work Culture

CERN offers an international, multidisciplinary environment where inclusion, mutual respect and collaboration support scientific and organisational success. Its staff and students come from more than 100 countries, and women represented 24.7% of the staff and graduate/fellow population in November 2025, compared with 21% at the start of CERN’s “25 by ’25” initiative. Building on that progress, the 2026–2030 “Inclusion Matters.” initiative invites the CERN community to co-create 50 visible and practical inclusion actions by 2030.

 

Selected Benefits

These are just three out of the many benefits CERN has to offer.

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Family Allowance

Additional unpaid Leave icon

Additional Unpaid Leave

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Flexible Work Models

Career opportunities

Visit the CERN career website for current vacancies

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