Applied Physicist

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

• It is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics and operates the Large Hadron Collider, the world's largest and most powerful particle accelerator. CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe, representing more than 100 nationalities. The organization is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of science and technology, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration, and promoting diversity as a core value since its inception.

Job Overview:
The position of Applied Physicist at CERN involves contributing to the operation and evolution of the Large Hadron Collider's cryogenic infrastructure. The successful candidate will lead the development, procurement, and commissioning of radiation-tolerant cryogenic instrumentation. This includes replacing industrial pressure sensors that are not suitable for radiation environments. By deploying upgraded radiation-tolerant sensors, the candidate will enhance system availability and robustness, ensuring durable hardware solutions that go beyond temporary software mitigations. The role requires a strong background in physics or nuclear engineering, with a focus on cryogenic instrumentation and sensor technology.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Applied Physicist include conducting research and development (R&D) on cryogenic instrumentation, validating and testing radiation-tolerant cryogenic instrumentation, managing the procurement, testing, and commissioning of sensors and electronics, and replacing non-qualified industrial sensors to improve system reliability and availability. Additionally, the physicist will support integration, performance analysis, and technical documentation related to the cryogenic systems. The role also involves diagnostics and troubleshooting of electrical and instrumentation issues in complex process systems, as well as collaborating within multidisciplinary teams and contributing to the training and supervision of students.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and possess a professional background in physics or nuclear engineering (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 also required that candidates have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before. Experience with front-end and back-end electronics, real-time data acquisition systems, and simulation, design, and development of cryogenic instrumentation components would be advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or PhD in physics, nuclear engineering, or a closely related field. The educational qualifications should be complemented by relevant professional experience in the field of cryogenic instrumentation and sensor technology, as well as a solid understanding of metrology and data acquisition systems.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional experience level that aligns with their educational background. Specifically, candidates with a Master's degree should have between 2 to 6 years of post-graduation experience, while those with a PhD should have no more than 3 years of post-graduation experience. Experience in testing, calibration, and validation of instrumentation sensors, as well as performance analysis and optimization of instrumentation systems, is essential.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English or French is mandatory, with a commitment to learn the other language being a requirement. This bilingual capability is important for effective communication within the diverse CERN community.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 24 months, with a possible extension of up to 36 months maximum. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the position is fully onsite. The target start date for this role is September 1, 202

• The position involves work in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations, necessitating a valid driving license. The job reference is TE-CRG-IC-2026-108-GRAP, and the field of work is Electrical or Electronics Engineering. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs per month (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.