Applied Physicist for CMS Inner Detectors

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. The organization operates in multiple countries, with its primary focus on understanding the fundamental structure of the universe through advanced scientific instruments and experiments. CERN's mission emphasizes diversity and inclusion, making it a central value in its operations and workforce.

Job Overview:
The position of Applied Physicist for CMS Inner Detectors involves the development of algorithms, FPGA firmware, and data acquisition systems specifically for the CMS online luminosity measurement, beam monitoring, and Tracker calibration for the High Luminosity LHC. The successful candidate will coordinate these developments, which include integrating and commissioning back-end systems for luminosity and tracking detectors. This role is crucial for enabling real-time data processing and precision luminosity measurements, which are essential for the success of the experiments conducted at CERN. The physicist will be responsible for deploying and maintaining firmware and real-time algorithms across multiple CMS board platforms, ensuring that systems for the Fast Beam Conditions Monitor (FBCM) and Inner and Outer Tracker online luminosity are effectively supporting luminosity measurement and beam monitoring. Additionally, the role requires validating front-end detectors and back-end electronics through rigorous laboratory testing to ensure optimal system performance from detector to data output.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Applied Physicist include: developing, deploying, and maintaining firmware and real-time algorithms for back-end electronics across multiple CMS board platforms; validating front-end detectors and back-end electronics through laboratory testing; executing functional tests during detector integration at the Tracker Integration Facility; organizing and leading test campaigns, including preparatory activities and on-site coordination; leading studies of detector efficiency, calibration quality, and operational stability; coordinating technical interfaces across detector, trigger, timing, and data acquisition domains; supervising and mentoring students and fellows; anticipating technical and operational needs; structuring workflows; preparing infrastructure; and engaging with collaborating institutes to ensure continuity of operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD or equivalent relevant experience in Physics or a related field. Additionally, applicants are required to provide at least one reference letter as part of their application. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with detector laboratories, electronics prototyping, and test beam operations, along with strong experience in FPGA firmware development (VHDL or similar HDL) and real-time data processing, particularly in the context of particle physics detectors. A demonstrated ability to integrate and troubleshoot complex systems spanning firmware, software, and detector hardware is essential, as well as experience with data analysis, detector efficiency and calibration studies, and relevant statistical methods for performance evaluation.

Educational Background:
A PhD in Physics or a closely related field is required for this position. Candidates with equivalent relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should include a strong foundation in applied physics, electronics, and data analysis, with a focus on practical applications in experimental physics.

Experience:
The position requires significant hands-on experience in detector laboratories, electronics prototyping, and test beam operations. Candidates should have a strong background in FPGA firmware development and real-time data processing, ideally within the context of particle physics detectors. Experience in supervising or mentoring students or junior colleagues is also important, as is the ability to adapt guidance to individual strengths and needs.

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

Additional Notes:
This position is a limited duration contract for 4 years, with the possibility of extension up to 8 years and eligibility for an indefinite contract tenure. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job offers hybrid flexibility. The role involves working in radiation areas, interventions in underground installations, and may require a valid driving license. Candidates should be prepared to work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays as required by the organization's needs. Due to occupational health risks associated with this position, selected candidates must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed. The job grade is classified as 6-7, and the reference for this position is EP-CMS-ID-2026-153-LD.