Firmware Developer for Data Acquisition System

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 thousands of scientists, engineers, and support staff from around the world, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and scientific discovery. The organization operates in multiple countries, with member states from across Europe and beyond, and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology. CERN's mission is to uncover the fundamental constituents of matter and the forces that govern their interactions, contributing to our understanding of the universe.

Job Overview:
The position of Firmware Developer for the Data Acquisition System involves working on the next generation of data acquisition and real-time processing systems for the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The successful candidate will be responsible for developing firmware for the L1 Data Scouting demonstrator system, which is crucial for handling the high data rates expected during the High-Luminosity LHC phase. This role requires collaboration with various teams at CERN, contributing to the development and testing of new data acquisition electronics boards, and presenting findings at international conferences. The position is part of the NextGen Triggers project, which focuses on integrating AI and high-performance computing into LHC experiments, making it a vital role in advancing particle physics research.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Firmware Developer will have a range of responsibilities including:

• Developing firmware for data acquisition and real-time processing in the L1 Data Scouting demonstrator system.
• Potentially developing online software to control the data acquisition system.
• Contributing to the development and testing of the first prototypes of new data acquisition electronics boards.
• Collaborating closely with members of the CMS L1 trigger and data scouting groups at CERN.
• Presenting project work and results at CERN-hosted and international conferences and workshops.
• Engaging in continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies and methodologies relevant to the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional background in Electronics, Computer Science, 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 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, Computer Science, Physics, or a related field. The degree should be complemented by relevant professional experience in firmware development and high-energy physics experiments.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have experience with firmware development specifically for AMD Xilinx FPGAs and Systems-on-chip (Versal, Zynq). Experience with high-speed optical links and data acquisition or trigger systems in high-energy physics experiments is beneficial. Familiarity with electronics, including reading schematics and configuring electronic components via I2C, is considered a plus.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered beneficial for integration into the workplace.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with 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 target start date for the position is July 1, 202

• The job reference is EP-CMS-TDQ-2026-66-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 provided, and opportunities for on-the-job training and formal training, including language classes, are available.