Geodetic Engineer​/Postdoc gravity field modelling

Introduction

The Geodetic Metrology Group within the Beams Department (BE-GM) provides metrology and alignment for components installed in the accelerators, their beam transfer lines and physics experiments throughout the CERN complex. It also handles all the related geodetic aspects like local coordinate reference system and local gravity field modelling. Within the group, the FP (Future Project) section focuses on establishing the technical foundations necessary for future operations through studies, simulations, feasibility demonstrations, and prototyping activities.

In this role, you will contribute to the studies for the Future Circular Collider (FCC), focusing on the gravity field models required for the construction of the 91 km-long tunnel and the later high‑precision (sub‑millimetric) alignment of the components of the particle accelerator and its detectors. In parallel, a collaboration between CERN and the Federal Office of Topography (Swisstopo) has been put in place to calculate simultaneously the quasi‑geoid model over Switzerland that is required for the implementation of the New Swiss Height System.

• Compute and validate a state‑of‑the‑art quasi‑geoid model covering FCC area and Switzerland.
• Explore and propose solutions for modelling equipotential surfaces inside tunnels.
• Take part in field observation campaigns (gravity, GNSS, levelling, astro‑geodetic) required to fill data gaps or to validate the computed models.
• Develop a gravity field modelling software package by combining existing tools and new features developed for the project.

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of geodesy, geomatics, engineering surveying, topography or a related field. By the Final date to receive applications, 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.

Skills required for this project:

• Knowledge of physical geodesy and gravity field theory.
• Experience in regional gravity field modelling using GRAVSOFT, GROOPS, KTH, SHGEO or another method would be an asset.
• Experience in object‑oriented programming (ideally Python and/or C++).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.