Data Acquisition Development Expert

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

• It is known for its groundbreaking work in the field of particle physics and operates the largest particle physics laboratory in the world. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe. The organization is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering innovation and collaboration among a diverse range of professionals, including physicists, engineers, and administrative staff. Diversity is a core value at CERN, and it remains central to its mission and continued success.

Job Overview:
The position of Data Acquisition Development Expert involves working in a mission-critical team responsible for providing real-time luminosity measurements for the upgrade of the CMS Detector. This role is crucial for the operation of the future High Luminosity LHC and significantly impacts the quality of various physics measurements conducted in the CMS. The expert will engage in firmware development on FPGA backend boards, lab testing, and validation of backend electronics and frontend detectors, as well as DAQ software development. The successful candidate will finalize, test, and validate firmware architecture for the tracker luminosity systems, develop and coordinate the software interface for the BRIL Phase 2 backend system, and ensure the completion of the final BRIL replica testing system, which will replicate the Phase 2 backend system. This position requires a strong background in applied physics and detector testing, with a focus on real-time systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Data Acquisition Development Expert include:

• Finalizing, testing, and validating the firmware architecture for the tracker luminosity systems, including online clustering for the Inner Tracker and stub counting for the Outer Tracker.
• Developing, testing, and finalizing firmware for the FBCM backend system.
• Completing the development of the final BRIL replica testing system to reproduce the Phase 2 backend system.
• Developing, coordinating, and testing the software interface and control of the BRIL Phase 2 backend system.
• Engaging in lab testing and validation of backend electronics and frontend detectors.
• Collaborating with team members to ensure effective communication and teamwork throughout the project.
• Utilizing standard lab tools such as oscilloscopes, generators, NIM modules, and detectors for testing and validation purposes.
• Contributing to the overall success of the CMS Detector upgrade project by providing expertise in applied physics and detector testing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following qualifications:

• Nationality of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• A professional background in Electronics engineering, applied physics, or a related field.
• 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.
• No prior experience with a CERN fellow or graduate contract.
• Strong understanding of electronics and experience with real-time systems, including FPGA, micro-controllers, and system-on-chip technologies.
• Familiarity with detector laboratories, electronics, prototyping, and test beam environments is highly valued.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes:

• A Master's degree in Electronics engineering, applied physics, or a related field, with 2 to 6 years of relevant professional experience.
• Alternatively, a PhD in a related field with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. This educational foundation is essential to ensure the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel in the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a solid level of experience in the field of applied physics, detector testing, and data acquisition systems. Direct experience with real-time systems, such as FPGA and micro-controllers, is highly valued. Additionally, experience in detector laboratories, electronics, prototyping, and test beam environments will be beneficial. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of working on complex projects and collaborating effectively within a team.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, both spoken and written. Candidates are expected to have a commitment to learning French, which is considered a good to have skill. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication within the team and contribute to a more inclusive working environment.

Additional Notes:
This position has 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, and the job flexibility is fully onsite. The target start date for this position is September 1, 202

• The role involves working in radiation areas, and candidates must be prepared for this aspect of the job. The job reference is EP-CMS-ID-2026-71-GRAP, and it falls under the field of Applied Physics. The benchmark job classification is 200140 - Applied Physicist. Compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs per month, 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. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.