Applied Physicist for CMS Inner Detectors (EP-CMS-ID-2026-153-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 develop algorithms, FPGA firmware, and data acquisition systems for CMS online luminosity measurement, beam monitoring, and Tracker calibration for the High Luminosity LHC, and coordinate such developments.

This involves Integrating and commissioning back-end systems for luminosity and tracking detectors, enabling real-time data processing and precision luminosity measurements.

Functions:

• Develop, deploy, and maintain firmware and real-time algorithms for back-end electronics across multiple CMS board platforms, including systems for the Fast Beam Conditions Monitor (FBCM), Inner and Outer Tracker online luminosity, to support luminosity measurement, beam monitoring, and lumi-trigger generation.
• Validate front-end detectors (including FBCM and Tracker modules) and back-end electronics through laboratory testing, ensuring end-to-end system performance from detector to data output.
• Execute detector functional tests during detector integration at the Tracker Integration Facility, ensuring system readiness prior to installation.
• Organise and lead test campaigns, including preparatory activities, on-site coordination of participants, and systematic validation of hardware, firmware, software and detector response.
• Lead studies of detector efficiency, calibration quality, and operational stability, through measurements and simulations.
• Coordinate technical interfaces across detector, trigger, timing, and data acquisition domains to ensure system integration.
• Supervise and mentor students and fellows, including recruitment and structured technical guidance.
• Anticipate upcoming technical and operational needs, structuring workflows, preparing infrastructure, and engaging with collaborating institutes to ensure continuity of operations.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Physics or a related field.
• You are asked to provide at least one reference letter as part of your application.

Experience:

• Hands-on experience with detector laboratories, electronics prototyping, and test beam operations.
• Strong experience in FPGA firmware development (VHDL or similar HDL) and real-time data processing, ideally in particle physics detectors.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate and troubleshoot complex systems spanning firmware, software, and detector hardware, from the detector frontend through to the data output.
• Experience with data analysis, detector efficiency and calibration studies, and the statistical methods relevant to performance evaluation.
• Experience in supervising or mentoring students or junior colleagues, including selecting candidates and adapting guidance to individual strengths.

Technical competencies:

• Simulation, design and development of trigger, data acquisition chains: including FPGA-based electronics.
• Simulation, design and development of (parts of) detectors.
• Testing and validation of detector, accelerator and beam line components.
• Analysis and optimisation of detector performance: through the interpretation of simulation and experimental data.
• Solid understanding of electronics.
• Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to anticipate needs, coordinate across teams, and lead activities under time pressure.
• Effective communicator across multidisciplinary teams, able to maintain constructive working relationships and coordinate technical interfaces with diverse contributors.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Working in Teams: contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.
• Working in the Interest of the Organization: setting ambitious, challenging but realistic goals; being ready to take initiatives and calculated risks in the interest of CERN.
• Leading with Strength and Credibility: making timely decisions that balance systematic analysis with decisiveness; dealing with difficulties in a timely manner.

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 16.08.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (4 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.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-CMS-ID-2026-153-LD

Field of work: Applied Physics

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

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