Glögg at CERN – a tradition of cosy-styled personal knowledge transfer

There are still relatively few Swedes working at CERN, and the number of students applying for the student programs at CERN is low compared to other countries. This is something Big Science Sweden is trying to change. 

“We are running a program aiming at getting more Swedes to think of CERN as a career opportunity. Professional mobility to and from creative environments such as CERN strengthens academic research in Sweden, and it gives knowledge transfer benefits for the Swedish industry. Not to mention the personal gains of having CERN on the CV, especially for someone early in their career,” says Amelie Hallin, at Big Science Sweden.  

Many of the Swedes currently working at CERN help out in the career project by sharing their experiences from working at CERN.

“Twice a year, we try to say thank you by inviting all of them to a festivity mingle. It’s just great to meet everyone, catch up and learn more about what’s going on at CERN,” says Amelie Hallin.  

But there is more to the party.

“During the years that I’ve been the Swedish ILO at CERN, I’ve seen how the network of Swedes at CERN has grown stronger. I think that’s great. There is so much experience in this group. Some have worked at CERN for 25 years or more – others have just arrived. Meeting people working in all parts of the enormous and highly complex organisation making up CERN helps me a lot in my role as ILO for Sweden,” says Fredrik Engelmark, the Swedish ILO to CERN.   

Around fifty people joined the mingle. Most of them were Swedes – some even retired ex-pats who made their way to CERN for the occasion. But also ILO colleagues and other international guests.

* Fluffy traditional Swedish candy in the shape of Santas.