Applied Physicist expert in beam-matter Interactions (SY-STI-BMI-2025-15-LD)

Company Description

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Job Description

Introduction

Are you a qualified and highly motivated physicist with experience in the simulation of the radiation interaction with matter? Join a diverse team of physicists and engineers and play a leading role in the Future Circular Collider (FCC) design.  

You will join the  Accelerator Systems Department (SY) , which is responsible for the beam-related technical systems of the CERN accelerators. The SY teams design, build and operate equipment systems in all CERN accelerators, and are engaged in ambitious forward-looking R&D programmes. 

The  Sources, Targets and Interactions Group (STI)  in the Systems Department (SY) has a broad expertise on the interaction of beams with matter and applies its know-how to a large spectrum of activities including particle production, beam intercepting devices, studies on beam-matter interaction and nuclear engineering. 

You will join the  Beam Machine Interactions Section (BMI) , which is in charge of quantifying through particle shower simulations the impact of different kinds of beam losses on the equipment and evaluating their implications for the operation of all CERN accelerators and future accelerator projects. 

Functions

As an Applied Physicist, you will address some of the outstanding aspects of the accelerator systems design for the FCC electron-positron collider and high-energy booster. 

You will: 

• Contribute to the design of the collimation system by conceiving, executing and leading particle shower Monte Carlo studies, in collaboration with accelerator beam physicists and mechanical engineers;
• Develop an effective shielding solution for the synchrotron radiation of the collider and booster rings, assuring a suitable reduction of the radiation levels all along the tunnel;
• Maintain and improve the machine models, contributing to the improvement of the Monte Carlo simulation tools;
• Supervise graduates and students performing related FCC calculations and document results;
• Collaborate on R&D activities within CERN and participate in international collaborations. 

Qualifications

PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of nuclear physics or engineering, particle physics, or a related field.

Experience:

Required experience in the following:

• Field of particle-matter interactions and their effects;
• Monte Carlo simulation of particle showers in complex geometries and in calculation and benchmarking of relevant macroscopic quantities, such as absorbed dose and particle fluence;
• Characterization of the radiation environment in accelerators. 

Technical competencies:

• Simulation, design and development of (part of) particle accelerators;
• Simulation of radiation environments;
• Knowledge and application of electromagnetic radiation propagation and interaction with matter;
• Knowledge and application of computational and mathematical physics;
• Analysis and optimization of accelerator performance.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; sharing and letting others participate in own work/project; encouraging team development.
• Demonstrating flexibility: actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies; demonstrating willingness to alter views when presented with new information.
• Achieving results: defining clear objectives, milestones and deliverables before initiating work/ project' objectively assessing and monitoring own work; regularly reporting on progress and advising of any changes in schedule or priorities.
• Solving problems: assimilating large quantities of information, identifying key issues and formulating conclusions clearly and concisely; being open to original ideas and creative options by which to address issues; continually driving change by seeking new ways to improve outcomes.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: creating or participating in forums to exchange experience, comparing techniques and learn from others; proposing ways to improve or streamline existing procedures, processes and methodologies.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than March 9th, 2025 by 23:59.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SY-STI-BMI-2025-15-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist