Laser Scientist ISOLDE RILIS

What you'll do

The Resonance Ionisation Laser Ion Source (RILIS), ISOLDE’s principal ion source, is being consolidated after over 30 years of operation. The laboratory housing the laser installation has been dismantled and is being rebuild with a larger footprint and improved safety. With ISOLDE aiming to deliver beams again in summer of 2028 to its user community of >1000 scientists from across the world, we are looking for an experienced person who will help us to reinstall the laser system and recommission it for ion beam generation.

Your responsibilities

Install the lasers as well as the required hard- and software to operate the RILIS on a 24/7 basis with automated laser beam stabilisation and monitoring.
Test the new pump lasers.
Develop new resonance ionisation schemes, targeted at moving RILIS into a fully solid-state laser laboratory.
Document the laser system, creating a detailed operational requirement specification.
Participate in set up and operation of the laser ion source including on-call operational duties.

Still here? Let's make a quick check about

Your profile

Demonstrated experience in the installation, commissioning and operation of complex laser systems.
Strong background in experimental photonics, laser physics or optical instrumentation.
Experience with laboratory automation, control systems and scientific software development.
Experience preparing technical documentation and operational procedures.
Experience with ion sources, accelerator facilities or large-scale scientific infrastructures is advantageous.
Experience with vacuum systems, instrumentation, safety systems or machine operation is advantageous.
Familiarity with high-availability research facilities supporting user programmes is advantageous.
Your studies focused on Physics, Applied Physics, Photonics, Engineering.

Your skills

Proven ability to diagnose and solve complex technical problems in experimental environments.
Ability to work both independently and as part of an international multidisciplinary team.
Knowledge of resonance ionisation spectroscopy is advantageous.
Knowledge of CAD Modelling Software is advantageous.
Fundamentals of programming languages & software architecture is advantageous.
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Ideal start date: 01/01/2027

Contract duration (in months): 24

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Medical hazard

Exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction.

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

Employment conditions

Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
Work in Radiation Areas.

Global Benefits at CERN

A monthly net stipend of either 6372 or 7004 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree and years of post-graduation 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 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, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot, Croatian and Turkish nationals, 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 SY department oversees the science and technology related to accelerator technical systems, including beam instrumentation, beam transfer, power converters, particles generation and their interaction with matter, and radio frequency systems. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of new hardware and software for CERN’s accelerator complex.

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.