Electronics Engineer

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Position Title: Electronics Engineer
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: 9th March 2025 at 23:59 hrs CET

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With over 2,500 employees and thousands of scientists from around the globe, CERN operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics. The organization is dedicated to probing the fundamental structure of the universe and studying the basic constituents of matter using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments. CERN's mission emphasizes diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce is essential for its success.

Job Overview:
The Electronics Engineer position at CERN focuses on developing advanced acquisition and control systems, particularly for superconducting RF (SRF) cavities. The role is integral to the Quantum Technology Initiative (QTI) and Physics Beyond Colliders (PBC) programme, where the engineer will work on implementing an ultra-low-noise control framework aimed at axion dark matter searches. This position requires collaboration with digital electronics experts and SRF cavity specialists to enhance the SRF measurement framework over a three-year term, culminating in commissioning and dedicated data-taking runs. The engineer will be responsible for rolling out an FPGA-based digital low-level RF (LLRF) system for SRF cavity readout, refining existing frameworks, integrating control and measurement algorithms, and leading in-situ commissioning. The successful candidate will also design and implement enhanced noise suppression methods using Carrier Suppression Interferometry (CSI) for the QTI dark matter initiative, making this a highly technical and collaborative role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Electronics Engineer include validating and releasing the LLRF framework for SRF cavity measurements, implementing CSI for ultra-low-noise signals in exclusion search measurements, rolling out and commissioning dedicated SRF LLRF systems, and developing and refining algorithms for CERN QTI use cases. The engineer will also be expected to work closely with other experts in the field, ensuring that the systems developed meet the high standards required for cutting-edge research in particle physics.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have established experience in signal processing and accelerator physics, particularly in RF cavities. The position requires technical competencies in at least three of the following areas: established experience in LLRF systems for RF cavities, development of complex FPGA designs (preferably with VHDL experience), test bench validation of analysis and debugging techniques for FPGA designs, knowledge of Python for hardware testing, and development and review of measurement/DAQ systems used in related R&D fields. Additionally, candidates should possess knowledge and application of RF techniques, as well as operation and maintenance of RF components and systems.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have a professional background in Electronics Engineering or a related field. Educational qualifications include 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 essential that candidates have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in relevant fields. Specifically, candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of post-graduation experience if holding a Master's degree, or up to 3 years of experience if they possess a PhD. This experience should be directly related to the development and implementation of RF systems, FPGA design, and signal processing in a research or engineering context.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language at CERN. While not required, the ability to work in French would be considered an advantage, reflecting CERN's commitment to a multilingual work environment.

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 target start date is April 1, 202

• The position involves work in radiation areas and interventions in underground installations, necessitating residence in the immediate vicinity of CERN's installations. A valid driving license is also required. The compensation includes a monthly stipend ranging from 6287 to 6911 Swiss Francs (net of tax), comprehensive health coverage for the employee and their family, and various allowances depending on individual circumstances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave per year, and CERN offers both on-the-job and formal training opportunities, as well as in-house language courses.