At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization.

Are you passionate about particle physics? Do you have a flair for a phrase? Do you want to work at the world’s leading particle-physics laboratory communicating the latest developments in high-energy physics to a global audience?

CERN has an opening in its Education, Communications and Outreach (ECO) group to join the editorial team of the CERN Courier – the international magazine for high-energy physics established in 1959.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone with a background in particle physics who wants to build a career in science communication. Experienced science journalists with a physics background are also encouraged to apply.     

As associate editor of the Courier, you will play a key role in contributing to the title’s print and online presence, showcasing developments both at CERN and at laboratories worldwide. Your core tasks will include:

• Liaising with the CERN and global high-energy physics communities to keep the Courier at the forefront of developments in experimental and theoretical particle physics, astroparticle physics, cosmology and gravitational-wave research;
• Interviewing leading physicists;
• Generating ideas, picture research, fact checking, proofreading;
• Commissioning and editing expert-authored feature articles;
• Writing news, features and other articles;
• Populating and curating cerncourier.com
• Managing the @CERNCourier Twitter account;
• Taking responsibility for several magazine sections;
• Working daily and remotely with the Courier’s publishing partner IOP Publishing;
• Contributing to projects and working with teams across the CERN-ECO group.

In addition to developing organisational, communication and editorial skills in an international research laboratory, the successful candidate will gain increased knowledge about high-energy physics, technology and international collaboration in a unique multicultural environment.

Eligibility criteria:

•  You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State;
• You have a PhD, or at least 4 years’ relevant experience since the completion of your MSc (or the equivalent diploma which gives access to doctoral programmes) with a maximum limit of 10 years’ experience after completion of your MSc.
• Have a postgraduate qualification in particle physics or a closely related field;

Essential skills and experience:

• An excellent command of English and proficiency in written English;
• Previous experience in science communication is desirable;
• Experience in writing/editing/publishing would be an asset.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills;
• Desire and ability to work in a team within a large international organisation;
• Creative, results-orientated approach and desire to set high standards;
• Comfortable managing multiple deadlines and working under pressure as demanded by editorial tasks and schedules;
• Ability to take initiative and drive proposals forward.
   

Please note that CERN Staff members are not eligible to apply for a Fellowship.

CERN would very much like to benefit from your expertise, commitment and passion.  

In return, CERN will provide you with:

• An employment contract for between six months (minimum) up to a maximum of 36 months.
• A stipend ranging from 7,201 to 8,178. Swiss Francs per month (net of tax).
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Depending on your individual circumstances: an installation grant, family, child and infant allowances as well as travel expenses to and from Geneva.
• 2.5 days of paid leave per month.

Your Life @CERN

Get a glimpse of what it’s like to work at CERN: https://careers.cern/benefits and https://careers.cern/our-people

This is how you can apply:

You will need the following documents (in PDF format) to complete your application:

• A CV.
• Your most recent relevant qualification.
• Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than a year at the time of the deadline for applications), giving an overview of your academic and/or professional achievements.
  • You can upload these letters at the time of application if you have them to hand. You will also be provided with a link as soon as you have submitted your application to forward to your referees to upload their letters confidentially. Please note this must be done before the closing date.

Deadline for applications: as soon as possible and no later than 1st September 2021 at noon CEST).