Applied Physicist

What you'll do

As an Applied Physicist, you will join the ATLAS Group at CERN and be part of the team which is working on the upgrade of the muon spectrometer of the ATLAS detector. In this upgrade you will play a crucial role, leading the electronics integration in the new RPC detectors to be used in the Inner layer of the Barrel Muon Spectrometer.

An important part of the job will be the installation and commissioning of the new detectors in the ATLAS cavern. Your experience in commissioning and operations of gaseous detectors will be a strong asset which coupled with your versatility, and strong team spirit will be essential to the success of the ATLAS muon upgrade program.

Your responsibilities

Testing and validating pre-production Front-End, Low Voltage, and connection boards.
Coordinating quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) activities.
Supporting the integration of electronics boards into RPC detectors.
Participating in QA/QC testing of fully equipped chambers.
Debugging of problematic chambers.
Coordinating testing before and after installation.
Acting as the main contact between the RPC project and Technical Coordination during installation.
Coordinating detector commissioning after installation.

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Your profile

Strong experience in the design, debugging and operations of fast electronics boards for gaseous detectors.
Demonstrated experience in operating and commissioning of gaseous detectors.
Knowledge of gas detectors physics.
Ability to work effectively in small to medium-sized teams under a leadership role.
PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Physics or a related field.

Your skills

Design and simulation of front-end electronics for analog sensors and transducers.
Knowledge and application of gas based particle detection technologies.
Testing and validation of detector, accelerator and beam line components.
Analysis and optimisation of detector performance,
Assembly and integration of detectors,
Uses openness and honesty to interact constructively with others.
Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Produces workable and timely solutions that meet requirements.
Takes initiative beyond regular tasks and makes things happen.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 54

Grade range: 6

Benchmark job: 200140 - Applied Physicist

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Team supervision

Employment conditions

A valid driving licence.
Work in Radiation Areas.
Interventions in underground installations.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Global Benefits at CERN

A minimum net entry-salary of 9236 Swiss Francs per month, increasing in line with your years of relevant 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, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

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 and Croatian nationals, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
You have relevant qualifications and professional experience.
If you have previously held a Staff contract at CERN, you will not be eligible for these positions.
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)
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.
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.