Library Cataloguer (OSI-SIS-ALGRAE)

Are you interested in becoming a library cataloguer and contributing to the dissemination of cutting-edge scientific research

The Scientific Information Service plays a central role in ensuring that CERNs scientific publications are accurately described indexed and made discoverable through major digital repositories. Each year the team curates around 13000 records helping to maximise the visibility accessibility and long-term preservation of CERNs research outputs.

The selected candidate will work within the Archives & Library Section gaining hands-on experience in the curation and cataloguing of scientific documents. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills in metadata creation quality control and information organisation in a large international research environment. You will contribute directly to the quality and reliability of bibliographic data used by researchers worldwide.

You will join a diverse dynamic and supportive team of dedicated librarians where cataloguing responsibilities are shared and collaboration is strongly encouraged. The team works closely together allowing for continuous learning peer support and knowledge exchange in day-to-day activities.

Comprehensive training and guidance will be provided making this position particularly suitable for candidates at an early stage of their career who are motivated to learn and grow professionally. This is a unique opportunity to develop core library and information science skills while contributing to meaningful long-term projects in an international and collaborative setting.

Your responsibilities:

Curation and cataloguing of CERN scientific publications primarily in INSPIRE and the CERN Document Server (CDS) including:

• Cataloguing scientific articles preprints conference papers theses and other document types using JSON and MARC formats.
• Reviewing checking and updating existing records to ensure the accuracy consistency and quality of metadata.
• Contributing to the maintenance update and documentation of cataloguing and curation procedures.
• Analysing existing cataloguing practices and propose improvements in line with international standards.

Participation in the migration to a new institutional repository including:

• Cleaning harmonising and improving metadata.
• Identifying and resolving metadata issues to ensure the correct migration of content.
• Contributing to the definition of requirements and providing input to specifications related to the migration.

Contribution to the broader activities of the Archives & Library Section such as:

• Taking part in Library service desk shifts to support researchers in their use of Library services.
• Participating in Archives re-boxing activities.
• Carrying out additional tasks related to Library and Archives operations in line with organisational needs and ongoing projects.

Your profile:

• Experience or strong interest in metadata management.
• Completion of in-depth cataloguing coursework as part of academic studies.
• Familiarity with or interest in digital repositories and library management systems.
• Interest in library services and user-facing information support.

Skills:

• Strong knowledge of cataloguing standards and bibliographic formats such as RDA MARC21 and DataCite.
• Familiarity with structured metadata formats such as JSON and XML is considered an asset.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to work accurately while following instructions and documented procedures.
• Willingness to contribute to a wide range of Library and Archives activities including user support and collections-related tasks.
• Good communication skills with the ability to interact clearly and effectively with Library service users.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Spoken and written English with a commitment to learn French.

Eligibility criteria:

• By the application deadline you have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Library & Information Science (or a related field) and your highest educational qualification is either a Bachelors or Masters degree.
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• Applicants without University degree are not eligible.
• Applicants with a PhD are not eligible.

Additional Information :

Job closing date: 18.06.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Contract duration: 24 months with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Target start date: 01-September-2026

Job reference: OSI-SIS-ALGRAE

Field of work: Support Services (Finance HR Legal Procurement)

Benchmark job: 5B0160 - Scientific Information Support Officer

Global Benefits

• A monthly stipend between 5266-5793 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERNs 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.

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:

Remote Work :

No

Employment Type :

Full-time