Applied Physicist

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established to explore the fundamental structure of the universe. Founded in 1954, CERN employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from over 100 countries, making it a hub for international collaboration in particle physics. The organization operates the world's largest particle physics laboratory, where groundbreaking research is conducted using complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of the universe, and it is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within its workforce.

Job Overview:
As an Applied Physicist at CERN, you will play a crucial role in the LHCb electromagnetic calorimeter (ECAL) upgrade project. This position involves leading the enhancement of the ECAL during Long Shutdown 3 (LS3) by integrating new modules based on SpaCal technology. You will be responsible for hands-on quality assurance activities, optimizing signal shaping in collaboration with electronics experts, and organizing test beam efforts, including data analysis. Your work will contribute to the ongoing R&D on scintillating materials for future particle physics experiments, making this role vital for advancing CERN's research objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the enhancement of the LHCb ECAL during Long Shutdown 3 (LS3) by implementing new modules using SpaCal technology.
• Develop and participate in quality assurance activities for the ECAL LS3 enhancement, ensuring high standards are met.
• Collaborate with electronics experts to optimize signal shaping for the new SpaCal modules.
• Organize and coordinate test beam activities within the LHCb collaboration, including data analysis and reporting.
• Actively participate in R&D efforts focused on scintillating materials for the LHCb PicoCal (LS4) and future particle physics experiments.
• Manage and coordinate teams, including supervising students involved in the project.
• Engage in simulations and optimization of calorimeter detector designs, contributing to the overall performance of the detectors.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and protocols, particularly when working in radiation areas and underground installations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD or equivalent relevant experience in Physics or a related field. A proven track record in optical calorimetry for particle physics experiments is essential. Applicants should demonstrate experience in calorimeter detector tests, including data analysis from beam tests, as well as simulations and optimization of calorimeter detector designs. Familiarity with the characterization of organic and inorganic scintillators is required, along with an understanding of signal treatment for optical calorimetry. Experience in managing and coordinating teams, including student supervision, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
A PhD in Physics or a closely related field is required for this position. Candidates with equivalent relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should include extensive knowledge of particle physics, calorimetry methods, and detector technologies, which are critical for the successful execution of the job responsibilities.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in the field of optical calorimetry for particle physics experiments. This includes a demonstrated history of conducting calorimeter detector tests, performing data analysis from beam tests, and engaging in simulations and optimization of detector designs. Experience in characterizing scintillators and managing teams is also highly valued, as this role requires collaboration and leadership within a research environment.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning French, as it is beneficial for communication within the organization and the local community.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure. The role requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week, with hybrid work flexibility. The job may involve working in radiation areas, underground installations, and during nights, weekends, and holidays as required by organizational needs. Selected candidates must obtain medical clearance due to occupational health risks associated with the position. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is EP-LBD-2026-11-LD. Compensation includes a competitive salary that is tax-free, along with comprehensive health insurance, paid leave, and relocation packages depending on individual circumstances.