GPU and ML Software Developer

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 a diverse workforce of over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the world. The organization operates in multiple countries, with member states spanning across Europe and beyond. CERN's mission is to push the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. Diversity is a core value at CERN, and it remains central to its mission and continued success.

Job Overview:
The GPU and ML Software Developer position at CERN involves maintaining, developing, and commissioning machine-learning-based GPU event reconstruction code for the ALICE experiment. The role focuses on leveraging GPU compute resources to enhance reconstruction performance through machine learning techniques. The successful candidate will work on ML-based and ML-supported clusterization and track seeding in the ALICE Time Projection Chamber (TPC). Additionally, the developer will contribute to the Monte Carlo production ecosystem and simulation frameworks, emphasizing workflow optimization and automation. This includes managing the full Monte Carlo production infrastructure, integrating ML and GPU code, and developing intelligent computing tools across the ALICE computing chain. The position requires a proactive approach to investigating and implementing machine learning applications within the ALICE computing framework, ensuring high-quality data processing and simulation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the GPU and ML Software Developer include:

• Commissioning the GPU TPC ML clusterization as the default clusterization code for data taking and simulation.
• Benchmarking and improving the ML-based clusterization in terms of processing performance and physics quality.
• Investigating the extension of ML usage to TPC track seeding.
• Contributing to the Monte Carlo production ecosystem, focusing on workflow scheduling, multi-timeframe processing, multi-threading, and integration of ML/GPU components.
• Developing and operating automated solutions for Monte Carlo production, job orchestration, and validation, including ML-based anomaly detection.
• Tracking activities related to the optimization and modernization of simulation and reconstruction frameworks, including ML-driven acceleration and GPU-based approaches.
• Investigating components and algorithms of the ALICE computing chain that could benefit from machine learning and developing prototypes for these applications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional background in Physics or a related field. They should be a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and 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 Physics or a related field. A strong foundation in high energy physics and experience with event reconstruction code is essential. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of machine learning principles and GPU programming.

Experience:
The position requires experience with high energy physics (HEP) experiments, specifically in event reconstruction code such as clusterization or tracking. Candidates should have practical experience with GPU programming and machine learning training and inference, as well as debugging large distributed applications.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, with a commitment to learn French being advantageous. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial 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 this role is August 1, 202

• The position involves participation in regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays, and official holidays, as required by the needs of the organization. The job reference for this position is EP-ALI-SC-2026-106-GRAP, and it falls under the field of Applied Physics. The benchmark job classification is 200140 - Applied Physicist. Compensation includes a monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs (tax-free), 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, a relocation package, and opportunities for on-the-job and formal training, including language classes.