Radiation Protection Physicist

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific research institution established in 195

• It is located in Geneva, Switzerland, and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world. The organization operates in multiple countries, with its member states primarily in Europe, and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology. CERN's mission is to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe through innovative research and collaboration across various scientific disciplines.

Job Overview:
As a Radiation Protection Physicist at CERN, you will be an integral part of the Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection (HSE) Unit, specifically within the Accelerators & Sites (AS) section of the HSE Radiation Protection (RP) Group. This role is crucial during the Long Shutdown 3 (LS3) period from 2026 to 2029, where significant upgrades to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) will take place. Your primary focus will be on conducting radiation protection assessments to ensure the safety of personnel and the environment, adhering to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles. You will engage in complex radiation protection studies, utilizing advanced simulation tools and collaborating with a dynamic team to enhance the operational safety of the LHC.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your responsibilities will include performing intricate radiation protection studies using the FLUKA Monte Carlo particle transport code, developing and updating input files and models as necessary. You will estimate residual radiation levels in complex exposure scenarios using tools like SESAME and compute the activation of various beam line components with ActiWiz/FCC tools, particularly focusing on the LHC collimation insertion regions. Additionally, you will lead radiation protection studies for the upgrades of the SND and FASER experiments, benchmark Monte Carlo simulation results by creating data analysis scripts that correlate LHC operation data with radiation measurements, and support the LHC operational radiation protection team with simulation data. Regular reporting to your supervisor, producing technical reports and notes, and presenting your findings in project meetings and scientific conferences will also be part of your duties.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and possess a professional background in Physics or Energy/Nuclear Engineering (or a related field). You should have 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 essential that you have not previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or PhD in Physics, Energy/Nuclear Engineering, or a closely related field. This academic foundation will equip you with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel in radiation protection physics and related studies.

Experience:
Candidates should have proven experience in radiation physics and radiation protection, with a strong emphasis on familiarity with Monte Carlo simulation codes for radiation transport, preferably FLUKA. Experience in programming, particularly with Python, is also highly desirable, as it will be essential for data analysis and simulation tasks.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered beneficial for effective communication within the organization and the local community.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully onsite and involves working in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations. A valid driving license is required. The contract duration is initially set for 24 months, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are 40 hours per week, and the target start date for this position is May 1, 202

• 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. Additionally, on-the-job and formal training opportunities, including language classes, will be provided.