Data Acquisition Development and Particle Detectors Expert

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 centers for scientific research. With a mission to push the frontiers of science and technology, CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe. The organization operates in multiple countries, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration among physicists, engineers, and administrative professionals. 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 and Particle Detectors Expert is crucial for the upgrade of the CMS Detector, which plays a significant role in the operation of the future High Luminosity LHC. The successful candidate will be part of a mission-critical team responsible for providing real-time luminosity measurements. This role involves firmware development on FPGA backend boards, lab testing and validation of backend electronics and frontend detectors, and DAQ software development. The expert will finalize, test, and validate the firmware architecture for various systems, including the tracker luminosity systems and the BRIL Trigger Board. Additionally, the role requires the development and coordination of software interfaces and control systems for the BRIL Phase 2 backend system, ensuring that the systems are robust and reliable for high-stakes physics measurements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities for this position include:

• Firmware development on FPGA backend boards to ensure optimal performance of the CMS Detector.
• Conducting lab testing and validation of backend electronics and frontend detectors to guarantee their functionality and reliability.
• Developing DAQ software that integrates seamlessly with the hardware components.
• 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.
• Completing the development of the final BRIL replica testing system, which will simulate the Phase 2 backend system.
• Developing, coordinating, and testing the software interface and control of the BRIL Phase 2 backend system to ensure effective operation and data acquisition.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional background in Electronics engineering, applied physics, or a related field. They 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. Additionally, candidates must be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and should not have 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 Electronics engineering, applied physics, or a related field. The educational qualifications should be complemented by relevant professional experience in the field, particularly in applied physics and detector testing.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have significant experience in applied physics, detector testing, and data acquisition (DAQ) systems. Direct experience with real-time systems, such as FPGA, micro-controllers, and system-on-chip technologies, is highly valued. Experience in detector laboratories, electronics prototyping, and test beam operations will also be beneficial for candidates.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication at CERN. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered a good to have skill for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is fully onsite and involves work in radiation areas. The contract duration is 24 months, with a possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the target start date for this position is September 1, 202

• The job reference for this position is EP-CMS-ID-2026-71-GRAP. The compensation includes a monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs, which is tax-free, along with 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. A relocation package is also available.