Software Developer - Beam Optics

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, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration among diverse professionals from various fields, including engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative roles. CERN's mission is to push the frontiers of science and technology, contributing to our understanding of the universe through cutting-edge research and development.

Job Overview:
The Software Developer - Beam Optics position is situated within the Linear and Non-Linear Optics (LNO) Section of CERN's Accelerator and Beam Physics (ABP) Group. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC). This position involves developing advanced software and analysis tools that facilitate precise beam-optics measurements and corrections, as well as enhancing commissioning procedures. The work is integral to ensuring the safe, reliable, and high-performance operation of the HL-LHC, directly contributing to the successful delivery of its innovative physics program. The candidate will be expected to maintain and extend the core Optics Measurement and Correction (OMC) framework and toolset, explore software solutions to improve optics measurement efficiency, update accelerator model creation algorithms, and develop new graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for use in the CERN Control Centre during optics commissioning.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Software Developer - Beam Optics include: maintaining and extending the core OMC framework and toolset used during LHC commissioning and operation; exploring software solutions to enhance the efficiency and capability of optics measurement and corrections in the LHC; updating accelerator model creation and correction algorithms to utilize new simulation tools; investigating the feasibility of automating key measurement and analysis workflows and implementing solutions where applicable; developing new GUIs and analysis tools for use in the CERN Control Centre during optics commissioning; and participating in and contributing to the analysis of optics measurements in CERN accelerators.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a background in programming and software design, with specific experience in Python. Familiarity with version control systems and collaborative workflows, such as GitHub, is essential. Experience in GUI development is also required. Knowledge of particle accelerator physics and operation is advantageous. The candidate should demonstrate strong software development skills, particularly in Python, and have the ability to test, diagnose, and optimize existing software. A structured approach to work, good prioritization skills, and the ability to deliver results within required timelines are crucial. The candidate should also be willing to share knowledge and participate in knowledge transfer activities, possess strong teamwork and communication skills, and have a keen interest in developing and maintaining software solutions for applied physics, especially in the field of accelerator physics.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a professional background in Physics, Software Engineering, or a related field. Candidates must hold 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 important that candidates have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a professional background in relevant fields, with a Master's degree and 2 to 6 years of post-graduation experience or a PhD with up to 3 years of post-graduation experience. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the candidate can effectively contribute to the development and maintenance of software solutions for beam optics and related tasks.

Languages:
Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication within the diverse CERN community.

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 offers hybrid flexibility. The target start date for this position is January 1, 202

• The role may require work during nights, Sundays, and official holidays, depending on the needs of the organization. The job reference is BE-ABP-LNO-2026-132-GRAP, and it falls under the field of Applied Physics. The compensation includes a monthly net stipend of either 6372 or 7004 Swiss Francs, depending on the candidate's degree, along with 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.