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

As ISOLDE Physics Section Leader, you will lead a diverse international collaboration using a world-leading research facility for radioactive beam science and manage the facility’s local group of research physicists.

Functions

The ISOLDE Facility (http://isolde.web.cern.ch) is an internationally leading facility delivering radioactive ion beams for research across a wide range of disciplines including nuclear physics, atomic and molecular physics, condensed-matter physics and material science, life science and medical applications. The ISOLDE Physics Section is part of the Small and Medium Experiments (SME) Group within the Experimental Physics Department (EP). It provides a stimulating scientific atmosphere and is an important centre for the European physics communities, contributing to the development of young scientists.

As ISOLDE Physics Section Leader, you will:

• Act as spokesperson for the ISOLDE Collaboration.
• Manage the ISOLDE Physics Section, the local group of research physicists at ISOLDE.
• Liaise with CERN management on issues involving ISOLDE, radioactive ion beams, nuclear physics, and other matters, as needed.
• Liaise with CERN technical teams with regards to day-to-day operation, consolidation, and upgrades of the ISOLDE Facility.
• Represent CERN externally in matters concerning ISOLDE.
• Work with the Collaboration Committee to foster new projects and plans regarding the future of the ISOLDE Facility.
• Act as an advocate for safe working at the Facility.

Qualifications

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

Experience:

The post requires the following experience:

• An outstanding research record in nuclear physics or a related field, using radioactive ion beams.
• A track record in research leadership/management.

The following experience is desirable and would be an asset:

• Knowledge of the ISOLDE Facility and its scientific programme.
• Management and leadership of a substantive academic unit, large research collaboration or other complex unit within a larger organisation.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of nuclear physics.
• Knowledge and application of beam production techniques.
• Development, review of plans for experimental physics programme.
• Organisation, planning and control.
• Development of vision and strategy.

Behavioural competencies:

• Leading with Strength and Credibility: Acts as role model and leads by example; uses power and/or position in the interests of all. Demonstrates authority and is accountable for actions, decisions and effective functioning of the team; coordinates team activities and assignments with a view to allowing the staff members to assure a healthy balance between work and personal life.
• Creating Vision and Strategic Partnerships: Creates shared interests and promotes contact and collaboration with key external partners.
  Promotes and communicates a compelling vision for the future; inspires a sense of purpose and participation in a ground breaking and unique experience.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: Demonstrates a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supports initiatives for change. Readily absorbs new techniques and working practices; proposes new or improved ways of working.
• Communicating Effectively: Expresses opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeps to the point. Utilises effective negotiation techniques to achieve long-term results acceptable to all parties involved.
• Solving Problems: Assimilates large quantities of information, identifies key issues and formulates conclusions clearly and concisely. Is open to original ideas and creative options by which to address issues; continually drives change by seeking new ways to improve outcomes.

Language skills:

Proficient spoken and written English. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations. Ability to speak French would be an advantage.

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 06.09.2024.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (3 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

If you hold a tenured position in your home institute, you will need their approval to take leave.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-SME-IS-2024-80-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Research Physicist