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Introduction

Are you an Applied Physicist with a passion for developing challenging technological demonstrators? If so, we are offering an opportunity to take a leading role in the design, development and rollout of novel superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavities, and to work within a team focused on developing next-level SRF systems.

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.

Within the SY Department, you will be part of the Superconducting RF (SRF) Section in the Radio Frequency (RF) Group and will be positioned to develop your expertise across the full spectrum of  SRF systems, from design to operation.

Of particular interest is the development of an SRF cavity demonstrator as a detector for dark matter for candidates known as axions. This R&D project is part of CERN’s contribution to the Quantum Technology Initiative (QTI), and as a key member of the QTI SRF team you will work closely with SRF, cryogenics, electronics, mechanical and material science teams here at CERN and in the wider QTI community. 

Functions

In your role as an Applied Physicist, you will:

• Support SRF with simulation, design and development of SRF accelerator components, across all SRF section projects;
• Participate in SRF cavity preparation, and RF performance measurements in sophisticated cryogenic eco-systems;
• Develop data analysis for enhanced cavity performance assessment;
• Contribute to the operation and performance of SY-RF-SRF systems.

In addition, in the context of SRF commitments to the QTI initiative, you will:

• Take a leading role in the RF design of the QTI demonstrator system, with detailed electromagnetic simulations matched to theoretical models of cavity performance, such that expected performance reach can be optimised;
• Estimate expected system constraints through coupled thermo-electromagnetic simulations in the sub-Kelvin regime;
• Follow-up at CERN the manufacturing, installation and commissioning of the demonstrator and auxiliary equipment;
• Define the controls, supervision and data acquisition required for commissioning and operation;
• Oversee data-taking in the initial operations period, managing both demonstrator operation and data quality.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of in applied physics, engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Proven experience in RF engineering, particularly in SRF cavity systems and their multi-objective optimization;
• Demonstrated experience in electromagnetic, thermal or coupled multi-physics simulations;
• Experience in measurement techniques and data analysis methods (preferred programming language: python);
• Measurement experience with SRF cavities and/or LLRF control systems would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Design and modelling of RF accelerating structures;
• Design and analysis of RF systems;
• Knowledge and application of computational methods and tools in electromagnetism;
• Construction and testing of RF accelerating structures, superconducting;
• Knowledge and application of RF techniques.

Behavioural competencies:

• Communicating effectively: delivering presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusting style and content to the audience; responding calmly and confidently to questions; utilising effective negotiation techniques to achieve long-term results acceptable to all parties involved.
• Achieving results: driving work / projects along and seeing them through to their conclusion; having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Demonstrating flexibility: actively participating in the implementation of new processes and technologies; being willing to work on different projects simultaneously; readily absorbing new techniques and working practices; proposing new or improved ways of working.
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Demonstrating accountability: using openness and honesty to interact constructively with others; standing up for own opinion and actions with well substantiated arguments.

Language skills:

• Spoken and written English: ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in English.
• Ability to understand and speak the French in professional contexts would be an asset. 

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 September 1, 2024 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.

These functions require:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SY-RF-SRF-2024-123-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist