Applied Physicist – Penning Trap

What you'll do

You will contribute to improving the performance of a Penning trap used in the HIE-ISOLDE post-accelerator to accumulate, cool and bunch high-intensity radioactive ion beams prior to charge breeding and acceleration. The work includes mechanical design and modification of internal trap components, production follow-up and quality assurance, as well as assembly and functional testing. You will also perform simulations of non-neutral plasmas and participate in experimental studies with Paul traps. Working within a small, collaborative team, you will apply and expand expertise in ion-trapping physics through both theoretical and hands-on activities.

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Your responsibilities

Be in charge of producing a complete spare of the internal drift-tube structure of a Penning trap.
Investigate and identify the reason for the occasional discharges occurring inside the Penning trap and thereafter suggest and implement mitigating actions.
Suggest modifications to the injection stage in order to increase the general transmission efficiency from a present value of ~50% up to >80%.
Implement models of a Penning trap and Electron Beam Ion Source in the particle tracking program RF-Track and perform space-charge investigations.
Follow the acceptance test of an externally purchased superconducting solenoid that should act as spare, with focus on the magnetic field measurements and the operational aspects of the new magnet.
Participate in cooling and bunching tests of light ions inside an RFQ cooler-buncher of Paul trap type.

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Your profile

Profound experience from operation of Penning traps and hardware intervention of such.
Previous work with CAD programs.
Experience from Particle-In-Cell simulation programs or similar for charged particles.
Familiarity of high-voltage installations.
Knowledge of RFQ cooler-bunchers / Paul traps.
Your studies focused on Physics (applied, experimental or accelerator or a related field).

Your skills

In-depth understanding of Penning traps and non-neutral plasmas.
Knowhow about mechanical design and BricsCAD, CATIA or similar design programs.
Proficiency in Python.
CST particle tracking, RF-track or similar charged particle simulation packages.
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language.

Ideal start date: 01/05/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Medical hazard

Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.

Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Employment conditions

Work in Radiation Areas.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
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 and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
By the application deadline, you have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation. You are not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
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 diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)
Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERNDepartment

The BE department is at the heart of CERN's accelerator complex.

Its mission is to lead the development, construction, and operation of advanced particle accelerators, and to provide cutting-edge technology solutions that enable new discoveries in fundamental physics. Committed to promoting a culture of excellence, creativity and collaboration, individuals from diverse backgrounds contribute to the advancement of science and technology, as well as engaging in scientific education, outreach, and broader knowledge and technology transfer initiatives.

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.