Heat and Mass Transfer R&D Engineer

What you'll do

Mechanical research engineer for the R&D of novel detector cooling solutions. You will become part of a new R&D team in the EP-DT-DC section, responsible for the development of new detector cooling solutions. Your field of activity will be especially related to the study of the heat and mass transfer properties of CO2 flows in small channels, in both super-critical and sub-crititcal conditions.

Your responsibilities

Collaborate with your supervisor at the definition of short-term and mid-term R&D strategies;
Personally run experiments on existing dedicated high quality facilities;
Process and analyse data;
Assist students occupied on specific measurement campaigns, instructing them to the use of the facilities, supervising their daily work, and supporting them in data processing and analysis;
Propose upgrades of the test rigs whenever needed, and manage their implementation;
Report to your supervisor progresses and issues, and discuss results being produced;
Actively participate in a weekly meeting gathering the whole team, where issues and progresses from all different activities are discussed;
Present R&D results in both international conferences and local seminars;
Serve as main author of scientific publications targeting Q1 specialised international journals.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Proven experience in operation of test facilities for heat and mass transfer measurements;
Good understanding of the specificities of CO2 as refrigerant fluid;
Knowledge of NI Labview;
Familiarity with languages and software used for data analysis (e.g Python, MatLab, etc...);
Familiarity with the physics of fluids in supercritical state;
Your studies focused on Mechanical Engineering.

Your skills

Analytical mind but open to new ideas;
Hands on, at ease in operating test rigs based on pressurized circuits and modifying them if required;
Good knowledge of heat and mass transfer physics in single-phase and boiling flows;
Working in autonomy, accountability and commitment;
Ability to write scientific reports and papers;
Adaptability to rapid changes of plans;
Good team working capabilities;
Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language.

Ideal start date: 01/02/2026

Contract duration: 24 month contract

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Team supervision

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly stipend between 6287-6911 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.
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)
Any document you consider relevant to your application
A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don't yet have your paper diploma)

Your CERNDepartment

The EP department conducts research in experimental particle physics and serves as a key reference center for the European physics community, contributing to the education and training of young scientists.

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.