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.

Introduction

CERN is preparing the Future Circular Collider (FCC) project for potential approval by the CERN Council in 2028/29. The importance and the size of the FCC project require a communication campaign from a local to an international scale, engaging CERN’s neighbouring population, the wider public, the broader scientific community, and decision makers. CERN is therefore seeking an experienced senior professional to lead the FCC communication campaign, implement a communication and engagement strategy, and coordinate the creation of content and its delivery to the various stakeholders.

The role will comprise strategic thinking, strong leadership as well as excellent delivery skills.

Functions

• Be responsible for implementing a comprehensive communication and engagement strategy.
• Lead campaign planning and execution, manage messaging across channels, and ensure clear, consistent, and impactful communications for diverse audiences.
• Coordinate content and product development, working closely with the FCC Project Office and technical teams and, interfaces with external stakeholders, as well as with writers, multimedia producers and the media and digital team.
• Develop key messages, narratives and content for internal and external audiences.
• Manage relationships with senior project leaders and diverse stakeholders.
• Anticipate and manage reputational risks and issues.
• Support local and public events related to the FCC project.
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on campaign performance.
• Manage potential contracts with external companies, lead and support communication staff and consultants as required.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Communication or Marketing or a related field.

Experience:

• Proven senior-level leadership experience in large-scale communications or public engagement campaigns.
• Experience working in complex, high-profile projects or multi-stakeholder and scientific environments.
• Demonstrated experience in managing projects effectively and delivering results under pressure.
• Experience across digital, media, and stakeholder communications.

Technical competencies:

• Strategic communications planning, including the implementation of a vision.
• Project management.
• Science communications.
• Stakeholder relationship management and community engagement.
• Participatory processes and community dialogue techniques.

Behavioural competencies:

• Demonstrating Accountability: making appropriate use of the Organization's resources.
• Creating Vision and Strategic Partnerships: demonstrating respect, diplomacy and tact with external partners.
• Communicating Effectively: delivering presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusting style and content to the audience; responding calmly and confidently to questions.
• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.

Language skills:

Excellent spoken and written English with a good working knowledge of French.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 03.12.2026 at 23:59 CET.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SR-ECO-2026-220-LD

Field of work: Administration

Benchmark Job Title: Communications/Public Relations /External Relations Professional

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern