CERN - European Organization for Nuclear Research

Company DescriptionJob Description

Your responsibilities

Do you enjoy blending physics intuition with modern software tools? Would you like to tackle real-world challenges in one of the world's most complex machines?

The Accelerator Beam Transfer (ABT) Group at CERN is responsible for the injection, extraction, and transfer of beams across the accelerator complex. We are looking for an Experienced Project Graduate (QUEST) to help develop next-generation modelling and optimisation tools for beam transfer processes, with applications both in daily machine operation and in the design of future beamlines.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing software and modelling stack that integrates advanced beam dynamics with scalable, production-grade tools.

As a Computational Physicist, your role will include:

1. Developing Physics Models

• Building and refining beamline models using state-of-the-art Python-based tracking codes like Xsuite and Cheetah.
• Contributing to the development of simulation workflows that can be reliably deployed for studies and operation.

2. Collaborating Across Domains

• Working alongside experts in beam instrumentation, operations, control systems and data pipelines.
• Supporting conceptual design studies for new injection/extraction lines in next-generation accelerators.

3. Integrating Advanced Methods using Python

Exploring machine learning and numerical optimisation techniques, such as:

• Differentiable physics models.
• Bayesian optimisation.
• Digital twins for beamlines.
• Continuous integration & reproducible simulations.

Your profile

Skills:

• Experience with physics modelling, preferably in the context of accelerator physics.
• Strong programming skills in Python.
• Knowledge of good practices in software engineering: version control, CI/CD, testing.
• Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and communicate technical ideas clearly.
• Familiarity with numerical optimisation and machine learning concepts.
• Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language.

Eligibility criteria:

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• You have a professional background in Physics, Engineering,Applied Mathematics (or a related field) and have either:
  • a Master's degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience;
  • or a PhD with no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience.
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.

QualificationsAdditional Information

Job closing date: 01.08.2025 at 23:59 CEST.

Contract duration: 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.

Working hours: 40 hours per week

Target start date: 01-November-2025

Job reference: SY-ABT-BTP-2025-101-GRAP

Field of work: Applied Physics

What we offer

• A monthly stipend ranging between 6287 and 6911 Swiss Francs per month (net of tax).
• Coverage by CERN's comprehensive health scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Depending on your individual circumstances: installation grant; family, child and infant allowances; payment of travel expenses at the beginning and end of contract.
• 30 days of paid leave per year.
• On-the-job and formal training at CERN as well as in-house language courses for English and/or French.

About us

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.

We are on a Quest. A Journey into discovery like no other. Bring your expertise to our unique work and develop your knowledge and skills at pace. Join world-class subject matter experts on unique projects, in a Quest for greater knowledge and deeper understanding.

Begin your CERN Quest. Take Part!

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.