Applied Physicist

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With over 2,500 employees and thousands of scientists from around the globe, CERN operates in 23 member states and collaborates with numerous other countries. The organization is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in particle physics and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration among physicists, engineers, and administrative professionals.

Job Overview:
The position of Applied Physicist at CERN's Experimental Physics Department involves a hands-on role in the development and enhancement of advanced detector technologies for the ATLAS experiment at the High-Luminosity LHC. The successful candidate will engage in collaborative efforts with international teams, focusing on the LUminosity Cherenkov Integrating Detector (LUCID-3) and the High-Luminosity Zero Degree Calorimeter (HL-ZDC). This role is pivotal in contributing to the next generation of instrumentation, where the integration of hardware, firmware, and software development is essential. The position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of experimental particle physics, requiring a blend of technical skills and collaborative spirit in a highly international environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Applied Physicist include contributing to the testing and validation of components for the ATLAS Forward Detector upgrade, developing and maintaining software for data acquisition electronics, and designing and supporting online monitoring tools. The role also involves active participation in laboratory-based activities at CERN, which includes testing individual electronics components and validating the full detector readout chain within the Forward Detectors laboratories. The physicist will be expected to work closely with other team members, ensuring that all components meet the required specifications and performance standards, while also engaging in problem-solving and troubleshooting as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have proven experience with data acquisition systems in high-energy physics experiments, particularly in detector readout and integration. Familiarity with firmware, especially FPGA-based systems, and hardware-software integration is highly desirable. Experience with online monitoring systems and real-time data quality assessment is considered an asset. A solid understanding of trigger systems, particularly Level-1, and detector control/operation concepts is advantageous. Practical experience in laboratory work, including the testing and validation of electronics components and readout chains, is essential.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should possess a professional background in Physics or a related field, holding 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. It is also required that the candidate has never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in high-energy physics experiments, particularly in areas related to data acquisition systems and detector technologies. The experience should ideally encompass both practical laboratory work and theoretical knowledge, ensuring that the candidate can effectively contribute to the ongoing projects at CERN.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication at CERN. Additionally, a commitment to learning French is encouraged, as it can enhance collaboration within the diverse international team.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully onsite and involves a contract duration of 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week. The role includes working in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations, which may expose the candidate to risks such as falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations. Therefore, obtaining medical clearance is a prerequisite before a contract offer can be confirmed. The job reference for this position is EP-ATL-AM-2026-119-GRAP. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances.