Applied Physicist - Beam-Dust Interactions; TE-MPE-CB--GRAP

Applied Physicist - Beam-Dust Interactions (TE-MPE-CB--GRAP)

• Full-time
• Compensation: CHF 6372 - CHF 7004 - monthly

Do you want to contribute to solving a long-standing mystery of particle accelerators: why can tiny dust grains have such a big impact on high energy particle beams? This could be the perfect opportunity for you.

You will lead the development of a novel experimental setup, from design and construction to commissioning, combining computational studies and hands‑on testing to advance cutting‑edge accelerator research.

Your responsibilities:

• Design and develop a dedicated test stand to study beam-dust interactions in accelerator environments.
• Conduct cutting‑edge research in collaboration with experts in beam physics, machine protection, and vacuum technology.
• Develop and apply physics models for the charging and release mechanisms of macroscopic dust grains on conducting and insulating surfaces.
• Design and execute experimental tests to validate theoretical models.
• Investigate controlled methods for producing and reproducing beam-dust interaction events.
• Identify and propose mitigation strategies to minimise dust‑induced beam losses in future accelerator facilities.

Your profile:

• Demonstrated experience in modelling physics phenomena.
• Experience in setting up and conducting laboratory experiments, including measurement analysis.
• Experience with numerical simulations and scientific computing would be an asset.

Skills:

• Solid understanding of particle accelerators and beam physics.
• Strong foundation in classical electrodynamics.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar).
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with experts from different technical domains.
• Creative problem‑solving skills with the ability to develop innovative solutions.
• Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.
• You have a professional background in Physics or related field (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 CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

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

Working hours:

40 hours per week

Job flexibility:
Hybrid

Job reference: TE-MPE-CB--GRAP

Field of work:
Applied Physics

Benchmark job: 200140 - Applied Physicist

• A monthly net stipend of either 6372 or 7004
  
  Swiss Francs per monthdepending on your degree.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
• On‑the‑job and formal training including language classes.

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