Applied Physicist

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 over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world, representing more than 100 nationalities. The organization operates in multiple countries and is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.

Job Overview:
The position of Applied Physicist at CERN involves playing a crucial role in ensuring that advanced simulation tools accurately reflect the experimental behavior of superconducting magnet systems. The successful candidate will work closely with experimental test teams and simulation developers to validate, analyze, and improve computational models, particularly focusing on quench protection and ramp loss phenomena in Low-Temperature Superconductor (LTS) and High-Temperature Superconductor (HTS) magnets. This role also includes contributing to the design, performance evaluation, and analysis of Quench Protection on several High Field Magnets (HFM) developed at CERN. The position requires a strong background in numerical simulations and experimental validation, as well as the ability to communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary and international team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Applied Physicist include validating existing simulation tools against experimental data from superconducting magnet tests, performing and assessing simulations related to quench protection and ramp loss, and supporting the preparation of magnet test plans, including the definition of quench protection circuits. The physicist will analyze data collected during tests, produce clear visualizations, summaries, and technical reports, and provide structured feedback to simulation tool developers to improve model accuracy and usability. Additionally, the role involves contributing to studies and tests of both LTS and HTS magnets, as well as supervising team members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a professional background in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computational Physics, or a related field. They should possess experience with numerical simulations (e.g., finite-element, finite difference, or multiphysics tools) and comparison with experimental data, as well as experience with experimental validation of numerical models. Knowledge of electrical circuits and/or cryogenic testing techniques is essential, along with experience in circuit simulations and analysis (e.g., PSPICE, XYCE). Proficiency in data analysis and visualization using tools such as Python or MATLAB is required, and familiarity with superconducting magnets and accelerator technology would be an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes 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. Candidates must also be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and should not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a solid level of experience in numerical simulations and experimental validation, with a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience for those with a Master's degree. For PhD holders, up to 3 years of post-graduation experience is acceptable. Experience with superconducting magnets and accelerator technology is highly desirable and will be considered an asset.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, both spoken and written. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is considered a good to have skill for effective communication within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position 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 job offers flexibility with a hybrid working model. The target start date for this position is August 1, 202

• The job reference is TE-MPE-PE-2026-85-GRAP, and the field of work is Applied Physics. 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.