Your responsibilities

The Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) serves as a proton and ion injector to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). In parallel, it also supplies high-intensity beams to a rich fixed-target physics programme. In view of the high-luminosity (HL) operation of the LHC, the intensity of the proton bunches at SPS extraction almost doubles while preserving longitudinal beam stability and quality. Future fixed-target experiments will furthermore require proton intensities well beyond the present reach. To understand the beam behaviour and its interaction with the accelerating radiofrequency (RF) systems in this new territory, advanced simulations are required. A precise model of accelerator and beam, including impedances and RF feedback systems, is moreover essential for the prediction of limitations. In the longitudinal plane, numerical particle tracking studies with the BLonD (Beam Longitudinal Dynamics) code allow to investigate longitudinal instabilities in detail, to compare them with beam observations, and to suggest mitigation measures.

You will:

• Update, optimize and extend the existing simulation model of the SPS to the configuration after the recent long shutdown;
• Collaborate closely with RF and beam dynamics experts to refine the simulations;
• Participate in beam study campaigns and suggest beam measurements to validate the model, as well as possible improvements to push limitations. The longitudinal beam dynamics simulations will not only identify the path to optimum performance in the SPS, but also contribute to efficiently understand observations with beam.

More information here: https://sy-dep-rf.web.cern.ch/

Your profile

Skills and/or knowledge

• Particle dynamics and electromagnetism (knowledge of beam dynamics would be an asset);
• Computing and code development for numerical simulations (knowledge of Python would be an asset);
• Fluent in English, the ability to work in French would be an advantage.

Eligibility criteria:

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• You have a professional background in Physics, Mathematics, Computing (or a related field) and have either:
  • a Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience;
  • or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience.
• You have never had a fellow or graduate contract before.

Job closing date: 07.08.2023 at 12:00 AM (midnight) CEST.

Job reference: SY-RF-BR-2023-48-GRAP

Contract duration: 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.

Target start date: 01-December-2023

What we offer

• A monthly stipend ranging between 6194 and 6808 Swiss Francs per month (net of tax).
• Coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Depending on your individual circumstances: installation grant; family, child and infant allowances; payment of travel expenses at the beginning and end of contract.
• 30 days of paid leave per year.
• On-the-job and formal training at CERN as well as in-house language courses for English and/or French.

About us

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.

We are on a Quest. A Journey into discovery like no other. Bring your expertise to our unique work and develop your knowledge and skills at pace. Join world-class subject matter experts on unique projects, in a Quest for greater knowledge and deeper understanding.

Begin your CERN Quest. Take Part!

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.