Introduction

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.

Applied physicists develop and use physics models and conducts research in a multidisciplinary environment with the aim of developing new technologies for the benefit of CERN’s research programme. You will be part of the Experimental Physics (EP) Department, which carries out basic research. This Department aims at providing a stimulating scientific atmosphere and remains an important reference center for the European physics community. In the Detector Technologies (DT) group of the Department, you will work on the development and consolidation of modelling and simulation tools for novel gaseous detectors define and guide R&D efforts and maintain an up-to-date framework. This implies supporting the worldwide gaseous detector community including fostering synergies by working closely with the international RD51 collaboration. 

The post is to be filled on a part time basis (50% - 20 hours per week).

Functions

The selected candidate will play an important role in the detector modelling and simulation activities of the RD51 collaboration, including conception, development, upgrade, and maintenance of adequate software tools required to model and predict Micro Pattern Gas Detector (MPGD) performances.

The specific functions of this job will be:

• Simulation of detectors.
• Development of application software.
• Building and maintaining proper environment for external experts to contribute.
• Supporting focused studies for specific applications and experiments.
• Supervision and training of CERN doctoral students and fellows.
• Dissemination of knowledge and organization of workshops, schools and lectures.
• Guiding the community in the understanding of the detector physics.

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

Experience:

• Demonstrated post-doctoral experience in the field of particle physics.
• Demonstrated contribution to the development of detector modelling and simulation tools widely used in HEP.
• Experience in detector studies applied to understanding and optimisation of detector performance. 
• Experience in guiding and promoting research lines.
• Evidence of ability to make significant contributions to the work of the Organization and of the hosted experiments.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of gas based particle detection technologies.
• Simulation, design and development of (parts of) detectors.
• Analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
• Analysis and optimization of detector performance.
• Development of application software: in particular detector simulation code.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in teams: gaining trust and collaboration from others; sharing and letting others participate in own work/project; encouraging team development.
• 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.
• Sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer.
• Achieving results: following through on new ideas and innovations; planning and implementing application.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts would be an advantage.

Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.

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. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 22.02.2022 at noon (CET).

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (2 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:

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

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-DT-DD-2022-5-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

https://rd51-public.web.cern.ch/