Vacuum Systems Physicist/Engineer (TE-VSC-VSM-2024-204-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. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Job Description

Introduction

Are you ready to work on one of the most advanced vacuum systems on the planet?

With 130 km of cutting-edge vacuum vessels, CERN operates one of the largest and most complex vacuum systems ever built. If you're driven by the challenge of pushing the boundaries of science and technology, this is your chance to make a mark. Join the Vacuum, Surfaces, and Coatings Group and be part of something extraordinary!

The Vacuum, Surfaces, and Coatings (VSC) Group is at the forefront of CERN’s pioneering technological research, overseeing all high and ultra-high vacuum systems across the CERN accelerators. From design to operation, surface engineering to acceptance tests, we handle it all. The Vacuum Studies and Measurements section (VSM) is involved in projects like high-luminosity LHC and new studies for the future circular collider (FCC). Joining the FCC team offers a unique opportunity to play an essential role in advancing groundbreaking research and innovation, contributing to one of the most ambitious scientific endeavours of our time.

Functions

Within the VSC Group of the TE Department, you will:

• Model, design and develop novel vacuum components for CERN future accelerators, predicting their behaviour under different beam operating conditions. Choose the appropriate materials and surface treatments to ensure reliability and performance minimizing the losses due to the interaction with the beam;
• Develop test equipment and physics models to assess the performance of the candidate fabrication materials and surface treatments in terms of power dissipation under realistic conditions;
• Validate the physics model and simulations by means of experimental validation on prototype components;
• Lead and participate in activities aimed at proposing the use of novel materials and designs for beam-facing surfaces of ultrahigh vacuum components, including their characterization in terms of interaction with the beam electromagnetic fields;
• Analyse the performance of existing components under present operational conditions and diagnose failures to determine root causes and implement corrective actions; document and publish the outcome of all activities;
• Play an active role in multidisciplinary projects, requiring close collaboration with teams in charge of other aspects related to beam-facing surfaces and materials and their behaviour in the accelerator ultrahigh vacuum environment.

Qualifications

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Physics or a related field.

Experience:

Proven experience in: 

• Electromagnetic simulations and measurements;
• Electromagnetic characterization of normal conducting and superconducting materials, at room and cryogenic temperatures;
• Coordinating the technical design of vacuum components and in leading prototyping studies needed to finalise the design; 
• Measurement and characterization of surface electromagnetic properties. 

Knowledge of surface treatments and thin-film coatings for ultrahigh vacuum applications.  

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of superconducting materials;
• Electrical and magnetic measurements of materials;
• Knowledge and application of RF techniques;
• Simulation, design and development of ultrahigh vacuum components;  
• Knowledge and application of materials, surface and thermal treatments for ultrahigh.

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;
• Communicating Effectively: providing others with timely information Ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented;
• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind;
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them Finding the information needed to solve problems; making objective judgments based on all the facts available.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English in professional contexts and the willingness 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.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 26.01.2025 at 00.00 Geneva time. 

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

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.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• 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: TE-VSC-VSM-2024-204-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

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