Early Career Stage Researcher

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the EU-funded Horizon Europe Doctoral Network (DN) Physics and Applications of Negative ions (PANIONS). This initiative aims to advance the understanding of negative ions across various scales, from atomic to cosmic, and to bridge the gap between fundamental science and practical applications. The organization operates across multiple European countries, involving 11 host institutions and a collaborative approach that includes both academic and industrial partners. The mission of PANIONS is to train young researchers in a multidisciplinary environment, equipping them with a comprehensive skill set relevant to advanced science and technology. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all members are encouraged to collaborate and recognize their biases, fostering a supportive research culture.

Job Overview:
The position of Early Career Stage Researcher is designed for recent graduates from universities or advanced technical institutes who are eager to engage in advanced development work within applied sciences and engineering fields. The selected candidate will participate in the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, which are aimed at training young researchers and building the careers of future leaders in research and industry. The role involves working at CERN on ion beam developments and techniques for producing and characterizing radioactive anions for the ISOLDE facility. The researcher will contribute to the development of efficient negative ion production techniques and participate in online experiments for characterization. Additionally, during their time at the University of Gothenburg, the researcher will join the Laser Spectroscopy research group, gaining training in laser and ion beam technologies and participating in research on photodetachment of negative ions. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of fundamental research and practical applications, preparing the candidate for a successful career in academia or industry.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Early Career Stage Researcher include:

• Conducting research on ion beam developments and techniques for the production and characterization of radioactive anions at CERN's ISOLDE facility.
• Developing and optimizing techniques for the efficient production of negative ions from radioactive species.
• Participating in online experiments for the characterization of produced negative ions.
• Collaborating with researchers at CERN and the University of Gothenburg, contributing to the interdisciplinary nature of the project.
• Engaging in training activities, including courses and workshops related to laser and ion beam technologies.
• Participating in the Laser Spectroscopy research group at the University of Gothenburg, contributing to ongoing research projects.
• Preparing scientific publications and presenting research findings at conferences.
• Collaborating with industrial partners during internships to apply research findings in practical settings.
• Adhering to safety and ethical standards in research practices. 1
• Contributing to the overall goals of the PANIONS project and fostering a collaborative research environment.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Possession of a university degree (MSc) or equivalent qualification that allows for doctoral studies. Candidates currently completing their MSc may apply, but the contract cannot commence until the degree is completed.
• Candidates must be in the first four years of their full-time research career after obtaining their degree.
• Candidates must not hold a PhD.
• Candidates must not have held a contract with CERN at more than 50% presence for more than 12 months in the last three years.
• Knowledge in one or more of the following areas: ion beam physics, ion sources, atomic and molecular physics, nuclear physics, laser technology, electronics, programming, and data collection.
• Strong motivation and ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively within a large research project.
• Open to candidates of any nationality.
• Proficiency in English is mandatory.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree (MSc) or a corresponding qualification that allows them to embark on a doctorate. If candidates are currently completing their MSc, they may apply, but the PANIONS contract cannot start until the MSc is completed. This educational background is essential for ensuring that candidates have the foundational knowledge required for advanced research in the fields related to negative ions and their applications.

Experience:
Candidates must be in the first four years of their full-time research career after obtaining their degree. This means that they should have some experience in research, but they should not have held a PhD yet. The position is designed for early-career researchers, providing them with the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a prestigious research environment.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the research team and for scientific publications. While English is the required language, knowledge of additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position offers an employment contract for 36 months according to Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions conditions, followed by a new contract from the University of Gothenburg for an additional 12 months to complete the PhD according to university standards. The position includes a monthly stipend of 5266 Swiss Francs net per month, 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks of annual closure, and coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme for the researcher and their family. Additionally, there are family, child, and infant monthly allowances depending on individual circumstances, as well as a relocation package that includes installation grants and travel expenses. The position also provides opportunities for on-the-job and formal training, including language classes. Employment contracts are expected to start on 01.08.2026, and candidates will need to submit two identical applications: one to CERN and one to the University of Gothenburg, along with required documents such as a personal letter, CV, academic qualifications, and references.