Firmware Developer – FPGA

What you'll do

Are you a passionate developer who enjoys solving complex problems and working with modern technologies? Join us in developing firmware for the next generation data acquisition and real-time processing system of the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment at the LHC.

We are upgrading the CMS level-1 (L1) trigger system built on custom FPGA logic to handle the high data rates expected in the upcoming High-Luminosity LHC phase, including a novel L1 Data Scouting system to analyse all events using coarse L1 information, and designing a next-generation data acquisition system for it. You will develop the FPGA firmware for this data acquisition system and help test the first prototypes of its custom electronics boards.

This work is part of the NextGen Triggers project, a multi-year collaboration focused on applying AI and high-performance computing to trigger and data processing in LHC experiments.

Your responsibilities

Develop firmware for data acquisition and real-time processing in the L1 Data Scouting demonstrator system, and potentially the online software to control the system.
Contribute to the development and testing of the first prototypes of the new data acquisition electronics boards.
Contribute to the development and operations of a demonstration system for the L1 Data Scouting concept.
Collaborate closely with members of the CMS L1 trigger and data scouting groups at CERN.
Present project work and results at CERN-hosted and international conferences and workshops.

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Your profile

Experience with firmware development for AMD Xilinx FPGAs and Systems-on-chip (Versal, Zynq) is required.
Experience with high-speed optical links and data acquisition / trigger systems of high energy physics experiments would be beneficial.
Experience with electronics, e.g. reading schematics, configuring electronic components via I2C, etc., would be a plus.
Your studies focused on Electronics, Computer Science, Physics or a related field.

Your skills

Knowledge of VHDL and of the AMD Xilinx firmware development tools (Vivado) is required.
Knowledge of C++, python, git and containerised software would be a plus.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/07/2026

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Hybrid

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

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.
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.