Hadron Sources and LINACs Physicist

What you’ll do

Your responsibilities

• Get familiar with LINAC beam dynamics codes and the existing machine models under HSL section responsibility.
• Study the Linac4 source extraction. Propose and implement new designs aiming at reducing the transverse beam emittance and increasing the beam current into the RFQ acceptance. Qualify those at the source test stand with beam measurements.
• Implement the existing Linac4 models (Travel, TraceWin, Toutatis) in Xsuite. Proceed to a detailed code benchmark.

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Your profile

• Experience in electromagnetic or accelerator simulations.
• Proven ability to work on both simulations and hands-on experiments.
• Demonstrated experience of work in the design and/or operation of particle sources for accelerators or a similar scientific field.
• Experience with one of the following codes would be an asset (Travel, TraceWin, Toutatis, IBSIMU, Xsuite).

Your skills

• Knowledge of beam dynamics simulation.
• Knowledge of electromagnetic simulation tools (Opera, CST, Superfish, etc...).
• Basic programming skills (Python, C++).
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to learn new tools.

Medical hazard

• Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.

Employment conditions

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Global Benefits at CERN

• A monthly stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month (tax free) depending on your degree.
  
  
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
  
  
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
  
  
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
  
  
• A relocation package (installation grant and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
  
  
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
  
  
• On-the-job and formal training including language classes.
  
  

Let’s get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

• You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State . Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
• By the application deadline, 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 not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

• Your CV (English or French)
• A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don’t yet have your paper diploma)
• Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERN Department

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Ready To apply?

Be prepared with our resources and tips

• Our Hiring Process
• Life at CERN
• Tips for your Application
• Working at CERN
• What happens after you apply?
• More about CERN

All good?

Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

• What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

  Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
  
  
  

• How big would the team be?

  The size of the team you’ll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
  
  

• What is the working language at CERN?

  The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
  
  

• What support does CERN provide for relocation?

  CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the "Salary, Benefits and Support" page.
  
  

• Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

  Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
  
  

• What would my salary be?

  Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.