Job Shadowing internships at CERN

“Job Shadowing” internships are possible at CERN for secondary students, if this forms an obligatory part of their school programme.

CERN can host a limited number of secondary-school students for job shadowing experiences. These opportunities allow students to experience what it is like to work at CERN while exploring fields raging from physics and engineering to computing, mathematics, communications, internal relations and many more.

Please note

  • There is no central selection committee for job shadowing opportunities at CERN.
  • There are no fixed application deadlines or result dates.
  • CERN receives thousands of requests each year and can only host a limited number of students.
Because of the high demand, we strongly encourage students to also explore alternative opportunities at local research institutes, universities, laboratories, and technical organisations, which may offer similar experiences and greater hosting capacity.
Who is eligible?
  • Job Shadowing must be a mandatory part of your school programme.
  • Your school must be willing to sign CERN’s traineeship agreement if you are selected.
  • If you are under 18 years old and travelling from outside the local area, a parent or legal guardian must accompany you and stay in the area for the duration of your Job Shadowing experience. Students and their families are responsible for arranging and covering travel and accommodation costs.
  • Job shadowing opportunities at CERN are usually organised for one week. The maximum duration is one month, and this period may be split into several shorter stays if needed. Shorter experiences, including one-day visits, are also possible if required by your school programme.
How to apply?

1

Explore CERN and identify your interests

Take time to explore CERN’s website, learn about our different departments and fields of work. Think about what you would like to learn during your experience — the more specific your interests, the easier it is for potential supervisors to understand your motivation.

2

Find the appropriate contact person

Search the web to identify the departmental secretariat (DAO) for the department you are interested in.

3

Prepare your application documents (in English or French)

Prepare your CV and a motivation letter explaining your motivation to join CERN as job shadowing intern — the more specific your interests, the easier it is for potential supervisors to understand your motivation.

4

Submit your application

Send your CV and motivation letter as PDF files to the departmental secretariat (DAO) of your chosen department.

When will I hear back?

If a supervisor is interested in your profile and available to host you, you will be contacted directly.