Applied Physics

Applied Physics at CERN plays a vital role in transforming theoretical concepts into tangible technologies that drive both scientific discovery and practical innovation. From developing cutting-edge particle detectors to contributing to global medical advancements, CERN's applied physicists are at the forefront of technology that changes the world.

Applied Physics at CERN: Where Theory Meets Innovation

At CERN, Applied Physics serves as the vital link between theoretical physics and real-world technological advancements. This dynamic field takes the fundamental principles of physics and translates them into practical solutions, driving both scientific progress and innovation in everyday life. CERN’s contributions in Applied Physics extend far beyond the laboratory, leading to significant breakthroughs in areas like medical imaging, radiation therapy, and materials science. For instance, particle detectors initially developed at CERN are now integral to PET scanners, enabling early detection and treatment of diseases. Similarly, synchrotron radiation, first used in high-energy physics experiments, is now a critical tool in material science and biomedical research.

 

Beyond these specific technologies, CERN’s work in Applied Physics also encompasses the development of advanced computational techniques and infrastructure that support large-scale data analysis. These innovations are not only crucial for scientific research but also have wide-ranging industrial applications. Applied physicists at CERN work closely with engineers, technicians, and theoretical physicists, pushing the boundaries of what is technologically possible. By turning abstract scientific concepts into tangible solutions, they contribute to a global hub of innovation that is shaping the future of science, technology, and industry.

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Development of Advanced Particle Detectors
Applied physicists at CERN are responsible for designing and developing cutting-edge particle detectors used in high-energy physics experiments. These detectors are critical in capturing and analysing data from particle collisions, enabling breakthroughs in understanding fundamental particles and forces. Beyond research, these technologies have been adapted for use in medical imaging, improving diagnostics and treatments.
Particle Accelerator Design, Simulation and Operation
At the core of CERN’s mission lie the particle accelerators that enable world leading research in particle, atomic and nuclear physics. The design, simulation and operation of these accelerators is carried out by CERN’s applied physicists. They are at the forefront of ensuring optimal exploitation of the CERN accelerator complex and in addressing the challenges of next generation accelerators such as the Future Circular Collider.
Applied Physicists for Accelerator Systems
By applying their skills in areas such as superconductivity, laser physics, solid state physics and beam-matter interaction CERN’s applied physicists are involved in the design, construction and operation of the large panoply of equipment required to run CERN’s accelerator complex. This includes the systems that generate and accelerate intense particle beams, devices that measure beam properties, novel magnetic systems and cutting edge targetry.
Project example

Medipix: Revolutionizing Medical Imaging

Origin
  • Initially developed for particle detection in high-energy physics experiments.
Technology behind
  • Medipix detectors use particle-tracking techniques to capture highly detailed images.
  • Unlike traditional X-rays, Medipix allows for real-time imaging at high resolution, enabling doctors to see tissues and organs in unprecedented detail.
  • This technology is now being used in various medical applications, from diagnosing diseases to guiding complex surgeries.
Impact
  • Medipix project extends beyond healthcare, with its technology being utilized in space research, material science, and other fields where precision imaging is crucial.
  • This project exemplifies how applied physics can translate complex scientific innovations into practical tools that enhance everyday life.

Open positions in Applied Physics

That's a fact!
CERN's particle physics expertise is revolutionizing cancer treatment with hadron therapy, using protons and carbon ions to target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue!

Explore the diverse fields of work at CERN

Discover how your role can transition across various departments

Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering

Creating an inspiring and welcoming environment for CERN's scientific community by managing and developing CERN's buildings and infrastructures.

Data Science & Data Analytics

Data Science & Data Analytics

Our Data Analytics and Data Science experts transform massive datasets from large physics experiments into valuable insights leveraging cutting-edge algorithms and computational tools to drive innovation across various fields.

Electrical or Electronics Engineering

Electrical or Electronics Engineering

Pivotal in designing, developing, and maintaining the sophisticated systems that power our cutting-edge experiments.

Experimental Physics

Experimental Physics

CERN’s Experimental Physics challenges the limits of our understanding, transforming bold theories into high-energy collisions that reveal the universe’s deepest secrets. From designing experiments to analysing breakthrough data, our physicists push the boundaries of knowledge every day. Ready to turn theory into discovery?

Health, Safety and Environment

Health, Safety and Environment

Playing a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of our people and the sustainability of our operations.

International Relations

International Relations

International Relations drive the Organization's strategy to build and maintain robust political, financial, and public support for CERN's scientific and societal missions.

Material and Surface Science

Material and Surface Science

Developing and maintaining advanced materials and surfaces essential for the optimal performance of particle accelerators.

Mathematics

Mathematics

Mathematics at CERN provides the essential language and tools that underpin theoretical models, data analysis, and algorithm development. From simulating high-energy collisions to optimizing detector performance, mathematical methods drive innovation across all areas of particle physics research.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering at CERN is crucial to advancing technology and enabling cutting-edge scientific discoveries. Our engineers design, build, and maintain sophisticated machinery, complex accelerator systems and experimental facilities that power some of the world’s most complex and impactful experiments.

Software Engineering and IT

Software Engineering and IT

Software is crucial to CERN's mission of producing particle beams for physics experiments, coordinating thousands of devices through a sophisticated accelerator control system. Our engineers and technicians develop software across all layers, from embedded real-time systems to micro-service-based backend servers and user interfaces. We leverage mainstream, open-source technologies such as Linux, Docker, Kubernetes, Java, Python, and Kafka, ensuring our knowledge is broadly applicable beyond CERN.

Support Services (Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement)

Support Services (Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement)

Support Services at CERN ensure smooth operations across the Organization, from finance, logistics and legal expertise to human resources, administrative support and scientific information management, enabling our scientists to focus on groundbreaking research.

Theoretical Physics

Theoretical Physics

Theoretical physics at CERN explores the fundamental principles of particles and forces, providing the framework for understanding the universe at its most fundamental level. It transforms abstract concepts into testable predictions, ensuring that CERN remains at the cutting edge of discovery.

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