Beam Physicist (BE-EA-LE-2021-132-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

These are exciting times at CERN with the full accelerator chain in operation, an extensive experimental area consolidation program approved, and many new ideas for experiments and beam lines proposed through the ‘Physics Beyond Colliders’ study.

The team providing the fixed target beams to the many users and experiments is looking for a beam Physicist to join the Experimental Areas (EA) Group of the Beams Department (BE), specifically the Liaison with Experiments (LE) section.

Within this section, you will, in accordance with the recommendations of the European Strategy for particle Physics, help to probe physics for the future. Via Fixed Target Experiments at the Intensity Frontier, we are searching for new physics beyond the Standard Model.

If you are an experienced physicist interested in both, particle and accelerator physics who would relish this challenge, join CERN’s Experimental Areas Group. Take Part!

Functions

As a Beam Physicist you will be responsible for the exploitation of secondary and tertiary beams in the CERN accelerator complex. You will set up, adapt, and develop particle beams, participate in the design of experimental facilities, directly interact with the experiments and collaborate and guide the operations team to optimally exploit the beam lines according to the needs of experiments.

In particular, you will be expected to:

• Take responsibility for the exploitation of the secondary beams in the PS East and SPS North Areas and in the CERN accelerator complex, ensuring that the beams operate at high efficiency to fulfil the yearly physics programme.
• Perform particle beam design studies (optics, simulations, background conditions), ensure their readiness and optimize the beams for the needs of the experiments.
• Resolve interface issues and liaise with the experiments for the optimal exploitation of the beam lines according to the respective physics goals.
• Discuss with users to understand their requirements in terms of secondary and tertiary beam characteristics, ensure the requirements are compatible with existing beam lines, study and propose upgrades whenever necessary.
• Provide guidance and work in close collaboration with the PS and SPS operations teams to ensure the optimal exploitation of the beam lines and ensure the best support to the experimental teams.
• Contribute to the modernisation process of all beam related design software tools and in the preparation of hardware consolidation of the beam lines.
• Write and contribute to software used for the high-level control or analysis of the beam lines.
• Document the beam lines and report to the relevant committees.
• Collaborate with the radioprotection and safety teams to ensure the safe operation of the beam lines, particularly for the experimental teams.
• Supervise students and technicians as required by on-going projects and activities.

Qualifications

PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Physics or a related field.

Experience:

• Extensive experience in experimental high-energy particle physics and knowledge of particle detectors.
• Working with modern simulation tools widely used in particle and accelerator physics and capability for data analysis.
• Experience in radiation protection issues, in particular related to particle beams and accelerators, and methods used to mitigate the risks.
• Experience in programming and modelling of particle or nuclear physics processes is essential.
• Practical knowledge of safety issues in particle accelerators, underground installations and experimental areas, and practices used to mitigate the risks.
• Related implications of modern engineering and project management techniques would be considered an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of particle matter interaction and respective physics processes.
• Simulation, design and development of primary and secondary beam lines.
• Simulation, design and development of (parts of) detectors.
• Knowledge of accelerator physics & beam optics (rings and transfer lines), including secondary / tertiary beam lines.
• Monte-Carlo techniques, transport codes and respective physics models (MAD-X, GEANT, FLUKA and/or BDSIM).
• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages (physics and beam related programming including data analysis).

Behavioural competencies:

• Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point
• Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions Working conscientiously and reliably; delivering on promises
• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them
• Working in Teams: gaining trust and collaboration from others Building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships

Language skills:

• Spoken and written English: ability to understand and speak in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations.
• Ability to understand and speak French would be an asset, or an undertaking to acquire it rapidly.  

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 10th January 2022. 

Employment Conditions

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

These functions require:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence is required.
• 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.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: BE-EA-LE-2021-132-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

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