ATS Research Fellowship (Applied Physics & Engineering)

What you'll do

We are seeking an Accelerator Physicist to join our team. We are responsible for designing, commissioning and following-up on the performance of the injection and extraction systems and the primary beam transfer lines that link CERN’s linacs, synchrotrons and experimental areas.

During the current phase of shutdown of the accelerator complex, you will play an active role in preparing our systems for their recommissioning. As the complex restarts progressively over the coming years, you will be responsible for the beam commissioning of various systems as they come back online. The research focus of this role will be the automation of commissioning procedures using novel numerical optimisation methods.

You will furthermore have the opportunity to design novel beam transfer systems with responsibilities spanning from initial design studies, beam optics, particle tracking and integration studies. You will also be responsible for communicating and converging on robust conceptual and technical design specifications with other physicists and engineers.

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Your responsibilities

Design, develop and optimise beam transfer systems supporting CERN's accelerator complex and future accelerator projects.
Perform accelerator physics studies, including beam optics design, particle tracking and multi-physics simulations, to support system design, validation and performance optimisation.
Develop functional specifications for beam transfer systems based on accelerator physics requirements and engineering constraints.
Develop and implement modern commissioning strategies using automation, numerical optimisation and data-driven techniques.
Analyse beam and system performance to improve beam quality, operational efficiency and system reliability.
Contribute to the preparation and recommissioning of beam transfer systems.
Collaborate with physicists, engineers, equipment specialists, controls experts and operations teams throughout the design, commissioning and operational phases of accelerator projects.
Prepare technical documentation, reports, scientific publications and presentations.

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Your profile

Knowledge of accelerator physics, beam dynamics and beam optics.
Experience in accelerator modelling and numerical optimisation.
Experienced with modern scientific computing practices.
Machine learning or artificial intelligence applied to accelerator physics.

Your skills

Ability to develop accelerator physics concepts and design beam optics.
Proficient with particle tracking codes, e.g. Xsuite, MAD-X or equivalent.
Development in Python.
Ability to translate accelerator physics requirements into practical engineering solutions.
Ability to build effective collaborations across technical disciplines and contribute positively to international scientific projects.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend of either 7004 or 7425 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree and years of post-graduation experience.
30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

Let's get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State. Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot, Croatian and Turkish nationals, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached. A few exceptions are possible annually.
By the application deadline, you have a PhD (or will obtain it within six months), and no more than 3 years’ research experience after completion of your PhD degree. Candidates with experience up to 6 years may exceptionally be considered.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
You have a good knowledge of English or French.
This VN is for Experimental Physics. If instead your field is Applied Science and Engineering, or Theoretical Physics, please consult open positions within the programme available on the Research Fellowship Programme page.
Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

Your CV (English or French)
A copy of your most relevant university diploma or a certificate of achievement from your university (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
Three recent letters of recommendation (not older than one year at the application deadline) outlining your academic and/or professional achievements, indicating the professional relationship from the referee to you. After submitting your application, you will receive a submission link to forward to your referees; letters must be uploaded confidentially before the closing date (uploading letters yourself is possible but discouraged).
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The SY department oversees the science and technology related to accelerator technical systems, including beam instrumentation, beam transfer, power converters, particles generation and their interaction with matter, and radio frequency systems. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of new hardware and software for CERN’s accelerator complex.

Overview of CERN

Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

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Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
How big would the team be?

The size of the team you'll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you'll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
What is the working language at CERN?

The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
What support does CERN provide for relocation?

CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the “Salary, Benefits and Support“ page.
Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
What would my salary be?

Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.