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 interested in working for the largest accelerator complex in the world? Would you like to contribute to the groundbreaking Future Circular Collider (FCC), where your work will directly shape the future of particle physics and engineering? We invite you to be part of our international and diverse team of top scientists and engineers.

You will join the Accelerator Systems Department (SY), which is responsible for the beam-related technical systems of the CERN accelerators. The SY teams design, build and operate equipment systems in all CERN accelerators, and are engaged in ambitious forward-oriented R&D programmes.

You will join the Radio Frequency (RF) Group which is responsible for RF technology development and the operation of the RF acceleration and transverse damping systems in all the CERN accelerators. A significant part of the RF Group’s activity is dedicated to accelerator upgrades and new projects.

The Beams and RF Studies (BR) Section is strongly involved in performance improvements and upgrades of existing synchrotrons as well as in the design of present and future CERN accelerators.

Functions

Our team is looking for a Radio Frequency System Engineer to study the interaction of high-intensity charged-particle beams with their surrounding accelerator equipment. Your essential contributions will serve as the foundation for a multidisciplinary team of accelerator physicists, tackling the beam dynamics of the largest accelerator ever envisioned. You will:

• Identify main accelerator components to the beam coupling impedance of the FCC and its injector synchrotrons;
• Perform electromagnetic simulations of designs of accelerator components such as kickers, beam instrumentation components, etc.;
• Carry out radio frequency measurements of the longitudinal and transverse impedance on accelerator components with the goal to reduce the impedance contribution;
• Lead the activities to model the overall beam coupling impedance in close collaboration with the beam dynamics experts;
• Ensure conformity with impedance requirements and propose mitigation measures, if necessary;
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior colleagues, fostering a collaborative and innovative team environment.

Qualifications

Master’s degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of applied physics, electrical engineering, RF engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience of radio frequency engineering;
• Proven experience with simulations of electromagnetic field configurations and the associated computational tools;
• Experience with radio frequency measurement techniques and equipment;
• Knowledge of basic beam dynamics and beam coupling impedance calculations for particle accelerators would be an advantage.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge and application of RF techniques;
• Analysis and measurement of dynamic effects in electromagnetic equipment;
• Design and modelling of RF accelerating structures;
• Knowledge and application of instrumentation and measurement techniques.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Demonstrating flexibility: demonstrating openness to new ideas and situations being able to deal with ambiguous or unpredictable situations; adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Communicating effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Learning and sharing knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information; proposing ways to improve or streamline existing procedures, processes and methodologies.
• Demonstrating accountability: presenting information accurately and objectively; working conscientiously and reliably; delivering on promises.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language in professional contexts. Ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports and to make oral presentations in at least one of the two languages.

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 10.01.2025 at 23:59 CET.

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:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• 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: SY-RF-BR-2024-194-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist