Materials Scientist

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 centres for scientific research. With a mission to probe the fundamental structure of the universe, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its diverse workforce, which is central to its success. CERN's facilities include the Large Hadron Collider, the world's largest particle accelerator, and it plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of fundamental particles and the laws of nature.

Job Overview:
As a Materials Scientist in the Surface, Coatings and Chemistry (SCC) section of the Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings (VSC) group, you will be an integral part of the surface analysis laboratory team. This role involves characterizing samples with specific surface finishes and functional coatings, providing CERN-wide support on surface properties of vacuum components used in accelerator operations. You will be responsible for operating ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems for X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Secondary Electron Yield (SEY) measurements, ensuring the reliability of data acquisition and interpretation. The VSC group is tasked with the development, design, construction, installation, operation, and maintenance of vacuum systems across CERN's accelerator complex, and you will contribute to the quality control and development of surface treatment and coating processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary responsibilities will include operating UHV systems to perform XPS and/or SEY measurements on surfaces and thin films. You will process, analyze, and interpret experimental data, prepare written reports, and present results in technical meetings. Additionally, you will monitor and maintain the performance of measurement equipment, carry out regular calibrations, and contribute to upgrade and improvement activities. You will also develop and optimize measurement routines and update laboratory procedures as necessary. Another key aspect of your role will be to model quantitative electron emission behavior using appropriate simulation software. Furthermore, you will contribute to R&D projects on functional coatings and surface processes for vacuum and accelerator applications, supporting SCC activities during LHC Long Shutdown 3.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State. By the application deadline, you should have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in physics, materials science/engineering, or a related field. Your highest educational qualification must be either a Bachelor's or Master's degree. It is important to note that applicants who have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract are not eligible, and those without a university degree or with a PhD are also ineligible.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's or Master's degree in physics, materials science, materials engineering, or a closely related field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complex principles of materials science and surface analysis techniques that will be applied in this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation. This experience should ideally be in a relevant field such as physics or materials science/engineering, providing a solid foundation for the responsibilities of the role.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse environment at CERN.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the position is fully onsite. The target start date for this role is 01-March-202

• Additionally, the position may involve work in radiation areas and may require working during nights, Sundays, and official holidays as needed by the organization. The job reference for this position is TE-VSC-SCC-2025-235-GRAE. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 5196 to 5716 Swiss Francs (net of tax), coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme for you and your family, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year and will have access to on-the-job and formal training at CERN, as well as in-house language courses.