Computational Physicist for Accelerators

This position focuses on the development and deployment of beam optimisation and machine learning tools for the CERN ion accelerator complex. The objective is to transform expert-driven optimisation and ML methods into reliable operational solutions that enhance beam performance and support high-intensity operation.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and improvement of beam optimisation software tools for particle accelerators.
• Analyse operational and instrumentation data to identify opportunities for improving beam performance and efficiency.
• Participate in the testing, validation and deployment of optimisation and ML tools in an operational environment.
• Develop automated procedures for accelerator setup, tuning and performance monitoring.
• Collaborate with accelerator physicists, operators and software developers to understand operational needs and implement practical solutions.
• Support beam commissioning and performance studies by applying data analysis and optimisation techniques.
• Document software developments, operational procedures and study results.
• Present progress and results at technical meetings and collaborate with experts from different disciplines.

Requirements

• You have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation.
• You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State (excluding Pakistani, Lithuanian, Latvian, Cypriot and Croatian nationals due to ceiling limits).
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis, preferably using Python.
• Familiarity with numerical methods, optimisation techniques, or machine learning approaches is an asset.
• Interest in particle accelerators, beam physics, control systems, or large scientific facilities.
• Experience working with scientific software, simulations, or experimental data.
• Familiarity with software development tools such as version control systems (e.g. Git) is an advantage.
• Ability to analyse complex problems and develop practical solutions.
• Experience working collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams through academic or research projects.
• Your studies focused on Applied Physics, Computer Science.

Skills

• Scientific Programming
• Data Analysis
• Python
• Numerical Analysis
• Optimisation Techniques
• Machine Learning
• Particle Accelerators
• Beam Physics
• Control systems
• Scientific Software
• Simulations
• Experimental Data Analysis
• Version Control Systems
• Git
• Applied Physics
• Computer Science

Languages

English, French