GPU & ML Developer for Reconstruction and Simulation

What you'll do

ALICE is pioneering the use of GPUs in Run 3 for the online processing and partly for offline reconstruction. To better leverage available GPU compute resources and improve reconstruction performance, we aim to investigate the use of machine learning.

As a GPU and ML software developer, you will maintain, develop, and commission machine-learning-based GPU event reconstruction code for the ALICE experiment, in particular ML-based and ML-supported clusterisation, and track seeding in the ALICE TPC.

In parallel, you will contribute to ALICE’s Monte Carlo production ecosystem and simulation frameworks, focusing on workflow optimisation. This includes the full MC production infrastructure, simulation frameworks, automation of production, validation and integration of ML and GPU-code, and the development and use of intelligent computing tools across the ALICE computing chain.

Your responsibilities

Commission the GPU TPC ML clusterisation as the default clusterisation code for data taking and for simulation.
Benchmark and improve the ML-based clusterisation in terms of processing performance and physics quality.
Investigate extending ML usage, including to TPC track seeding.
Contribute to the Monte Carlo production ecosystem, including workflow scheduling, multi-timeframe processing, multi-threading, and integration of ML/GPU components.
Develop and operate automated solutions for MC production, job orchestration, and validation, including ML-based anomaly detection.
Track the activities in the optimisation and modernisation of simulation and reconstruction frameworks (e.g. Geant, AliceO2), including ML-driven acceleration and GPU-based approaches.
Investigate components and algorithms of the ALICE computing chain (simulation, reconstruction, etc.) that could benefit from machine learning and develop prototypes.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Experience with high energy physics (HEP) experiments event reconstruction code (e.g. clusterisation or tracking).
Experience with GPU programming and ML training and inference.
Practical experience with debugging large distributed applications.
Your studies focused on Physics.

Your skills

Strong knowledge of the C++ programming language on Linux.
Knowledge of at least one GPU programming toolkit such as CUDA or HIP.
Knowledge of an ML framework such as ONNXRuntime.
Knowledge of debugging tools such as GDB and profiling tools such as perf.
Ability to work in a team.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/08/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Employment conditions

Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month 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 EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics in close collaboration with and supporting the wider scientific community working at CERN. This includes designing and operating experiments, developing and constructing detectors, acquiring and analysing physics data.

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.
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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.
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