Materials Engineer - Polymers and Composites (TE-MSC-SMT-2026-172-LD)

Company Description

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.

Job Description

Introduction:

You will join CERN's Polymer Laboratory within the Superconducting Magnet Technology section to develop and qualify advanced polymer and composite materials.

You will contribute to the design, validation and implementation of innovative materials, used in CERN accelerator systems within a cryogenic, high-voltage and radiation environment.

Functions:

• Develop and qualify novel polymer and composite materials for superconducting magnets and accelerator technologies, with particular emphasis on cryogenic operation, high-voltage insulation and radiation resistance.
• Design and validate manufacturing and processing techniques for superconducting magnet insulation systems, including resin transfer processes, bonding technologies, composite fabrication and additive manufacturing.
• Lead research and design projects within the Polymer Laboratory to address the evolving needs of CERN accelerator complex and experimental facilities.
• Contribute to the laboratory developments by identifying material technologies and processing techniques and establishing new experimental capabilities.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of material engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Experience in polymer and composite materials engineering, including development of manufacturing processes for fibre-reinforced composites.
• Experience in material characterisation techniques, such as mechanical, thermal or chemical analyses.
• Experience coordinating or leading multidisciplinary technical and research and design activities involving multiple stakeholders.
• Knowledge of superconducting magnet construction and technologies, or of materials for cryogenic, high-voltage or radiation environments, would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of radiation effects and ageing of materials.
• Knowledge and application of mechanical testing (destructive).
• Knowledge and analysis of materials failure.
• Knowledge, application and processing techniques of polymers and composites.

Behavioural competencies:

• Working in Teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
• Communicating Effectively: listening actively to others and letting others speak.

Language skills:

• Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Additional Information

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 31.08.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Hybrid

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.
• Use of certain mobile work equipment or equipment used for lifting loads (lifting equipment, bridge cranes, aerial work platforms, etc.) requiring a driving authorisation.
• Operations on electrical installations or in their vicinity (> 1000 Volt AC or 1500 Volt DC) requiring a specific authorisation.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-MSC-SMT-2026-172-LD

Field of work: Material and Surface Science

Benchmark Job Title: Material Science/Chemical Engineer/Chemist

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 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, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern