Applied Physicist

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

• It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics. CERN operates in multiple countries and employs thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from around the world. The organization is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. CERN's mission is to uncover the fundamental structure of the universe, and it is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce.

Job Overview:
The position of Applied Physicist at CERN focuses on Data Acquisition Development and Particle Detectors, specifically within 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 the quality of physics measurements conducted in the CMS experiment. The successful candidate 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 position requires a strong background in applied physics and electronics engineering, with a focus on real-time systems and detector testing.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Applied Physicist include finalizing, testing, and validating the firmware architecture for the tracker luminosity systems, which involves online clustering for the Inner Tracker, stub counting for the Outer Tracker, and BRIL Trigger Board for BRIL trigger generation. The candidate will also be responsible for developing, testing, and finalizing the firmware for the FBCM backend system. Additionally, the role includes completing the development of the final BRIL replica testing system, which will replicate the Phase 2 backend system. The candidate will develop, coordinate, and test the software interface and control of the BRIL Phase 2 backend system, ensuring that all components work seamlessly together.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and 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. It is essential that applicants 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 Electronics engineering, applied physics, or a closely related field. The degree should be complemented by relevant professional experience in the field, particularly in applied physics and electronics.

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 applicants.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 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 position is fully onsite. The target start date for the role is September 1, 202

• The job involves working in radiation areas, and the reference for this position is EP-CMS-ID-2026-71-GRAP. The 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, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. A relocation package is also available, and the organization provides opportunities for on-the-job and formal training, including language classes.