Experienced Project Graduate

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is at the forefront of scientific research and technological advancement. Established in 1954, CERN has grown to become one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research, employing over 2,500 staff members and hosting thousands of scientists from around the globe. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in particle physics and related fields. CERN's mission is to uncover the fundamental constituents of matter and the forces that govern their interactions, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration among a diverse range of professionals.

Job Overview:
As an Experienced Project Graduate at CERN, you will play a crucial role in quality control and the strategic development of materials. Your work will involve collaboration with international partners and industry to explore microstructure-property relationships, failure mechanisms, and the effects of processing conditions on the performance of materials and components, particularly for next-generation high-field accelerator magnets and ultra-high vacuum systems. A significant part of your role will focus on the High-Field Magnet (HFM), where you will conduct microscopy examinations of Nb3Sn wire samples. Utilizing advanced microscopy, microanalysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques, you will characterize materials, support design optimization, and guide research directions within CERN and its international collaborative programs. This position requires a strong foundation in materials science and engineering, as well as the ability to work in an interdisciplinary and international environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your responsibilities will include designing and conducting interdisciplinary studies in materials science and engineering, performing advanced materials characterization using electron microscopy, microanalysis, and X-ray diffraction techniques. You will investigate phase transformations, diffusion mechanisms, and microstructural evolution during manufacturing and processing. Additionally, you will assess production and fabrication techniques related to materials, ensuring compliance with international standards or state-of-the-art practices. You will carry out quantitative image and data analysis to extract relevant microstructural parameters and correlate them to performance in demanding environments. Collaboration with internal teams, manufacturers, and research institutes will be essential to interpret results and guide development. Finally, you will summarize findings and present results in technical meetings and reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have experience in electron microscopy and materials characterization, along with a strong background in materials science, particularly in phase equilibria and microstructure-property relationships. The ability to work in an interdisciplinary and international environment is crucial. Experience with superconducting materials and/or vacuum-compatible materials, knowledge of fabrication techniques (including welding, soldering, brazing, and forming), and experience in surface analysis, coatings, or interface characterization will be considered assets. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are essential. Clear communication and presentation skills, as well as good organizational skills to manage experimental campaigns, are also required. Experience with electrical and magnetic testing would be advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a professional background in Materials Science/Engineering or a related field. A Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience is required, or alternatively, a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience. It is important that candidates have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional background in Materials Science/Engineering, with specific experience in electron microscopy and materials characterization. A Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of relevant experience or a PhD with up to 3 years of experience is necessary. This level of experience ensures that candidates are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of the role and contribute effectively to the ongoing projects at CERN.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to learning French. This bilingual capability will enhance communication within the diverse international environment at CERN.

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 job is fully onsite. The target start date for this position is September 1, 202

• A valid driving license is required for this role. The job reference is EN-MME-MM-2026-83-GRAP, and it falls under the field of Material and Surface Science. 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, family allowances, and a relocation package depending on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.