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.

Analytics and Data Science: Stepping up the data processing game.

At CERN, Analytics and Data Science is at the heart of processing and interpreting the vast amounts of data generated by the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). This data, produced at an unprecedented scale, is meticulously analysed using sophisticated algorithms and state-of-the-art computational tools. The insights gained not only propel advancements in particle physics but also contribute to innovations across various scientific and engineering domains within the Organization.

 

While CERN has traditionally relied on in-house tools for data analysis, the integration of mainstream big data technologies,  allowing for more scalable and flexible data management solutions, and impacting other areas like material science, medical research, and more.

 

The integration of these technologies has transformed the scope and reach of CERN’s Analytics and Data Science efforts. It has facilitated a more collaborative and cross-disciplinary approach, leveraging global expertise and resources. As a result, we are not only pushing the boundaries of fundamental physics but also contributing to technological advancements with broader societal impacts.

Ready to innovate?
Consult the job offers
Data Collection and Integration
We gather and integrate vast amounts of data from CERN's diverse infrastructure - spanning accelerators, detectors, cryogenic systems, and the Worldwide LHC Computing Grid to create a unified foundation for cutting-edge analysis.
Data Analysis and Predictive Modelling
By diving deep into the data, we uncover patterns and trends that drive smarter decisions. Our advanced analytics and predictive modelling empower CERN to stay ahead of potential challenges and optimize operations with precision.
Monitoring and Control Systems
We develop and manage sophisticated monitoring and control systems that keep CERN's complex operations running smoothly. With real-time oversight, we quickly respond to anomalies and continually enhance our processes through data-driven insights.
Project example

Worldwide LHC Computing Grid (WLCG)

Key Objectives
  • Provide global computing resources for the storage, distribution and analysis of the data generated by the LHC.
  • Ensure seamless global collaboration by linking computing resources from over 170 data centres across 42 countries, enabling distributed computing and data access.
Impact
  • The grid has been instrumental in making groundbreaking discoveries, such as the Higgs boson, by providing the computational power needed to analyse immense volumes of data.
  • It has set a precedent for global scientific collaboration, demonstrating the potential of distributed computing in advancing complex scientific research.
Technological Components
  • The grid consists of Tier 0 (CERN), Tier 1 (large data centres), and Tier 2 (smaller centres) computing resources, which work together to manage and process data in a hierarchical structure.
  • It utilizes a combination of high-performance computing, cloud services, and data storage technologies to handle petabytes of data efficiently.
Conclusion
  • The WLCG has been essential to the success of the LHC, providing the backbone for data analysis and scientific discovery.
  • It serves as a model for future distributed computing projects, demonstrating the power of global cooperation and advanced technology in pushing the boundaries of science.

Open positions in Data Science & Data Analytics

That's a fact!
As of 2024, about 1 exabyte of data produced by the LHC experiments have been stored, processed and analysed with the help of 10,000 servers and 100,000 hard disks located in the CERN Data Centre.

Explore the diverse fields of work at CERN

Discover how your role can transition across various departments

Applied Physics

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.

Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering

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

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.

Create an alert
Stay informed about new opportunities at CERN and don’t miss a chance to join us!
Find your Path There is a universe of opportunities at CERN; let us guide you
What's your domain?
What's your level of experience?