At CERN, the European Organisation 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.
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Job description
Are you passionate about particle physics? Do you have a flair for a phrase? Would you like 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 for a Project Graduate in the Content section of its Education, Communications and Outreach (ECO) group, within the Stakeholder Relations (SR) sector, to join the editorial team of CERN Courier - the international magazine for high-energy physics, established in 1959.
CERN Courier magazine exists to serve the international community working in particle physics and adjacent fields by providing rigorous, accessible and impactful reporting on the latest developments in science, technology and policy.
Reporting to the CERN Courier editor, you will contribute to the magazine's print and digital editions, showcasing developments in international high-energy physics. This is an ideal opportunity for someone with a background in particle physics who would like to build a career in science communication. Experienced science journalists with a physics background are also encouraged to apply.
Your responsibilities
As an associate editor, you will help to drive forward the Courier's print and online presence as part of a small but dynamic team. Your core tasks will include:
Liaising with the global high-energy physics community to keep the Courier at the forefront of developments in experimental and theoretical particle physics, accelerator physics, astroparticle physics and cosmology.
Generating ideas, fact checking and proofreading.
Commissioning and editing expert-authored feature articles.
Interviewing leading physicists.
Writing news, features and other articles.
Curating the cerncourier.com website and managing social media.
Taking responsibility for the timely production of several sections of the magazine.
Liaising with publishing partners, partner institutions, authors and readers.
Collaborating with colleagues across the IR-ECO group to support CERN's communications objectives.
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.
Your profile
Research experience in high-energy physics or a closely related field.
Experience in writing, editing and publishing, or the aptitude to rapidly develop these skills.
Skills:
Communicating complex topics with clarity, accuracy, concision and flair.
Adapting your communication to the needs of different audiences.
Knowledge of particle physics and research methodologies.
The ability to write and edit fluently in English.
Attention to detail and quality management.
Service orientation.
Empathy and active listening.
Curiosity and independent research.
Critical and creative thinking.
Resilience, flexibility and adaptability.
Time management and prioritisation.
Motivation and self-awareness.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.
Eligibility criteria:
You have a professional background in Particle Physics, Science Communication (or a related field) and have either:
a Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience;
or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
What we offer
A monthly net stipend of either 6372 or 7004 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree.
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 and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.
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