Applied Physicist - Beam Impedance in PBC (BE-ABP-CEI-2025-161-GRAP)

Job Description

The Physics Beyond Colliders (PBC) initiative at CERN seeks to expand the scientific reach of the accelerator complex by enabling innovative experiments that probe new frontiers in particle physics. These projects often rely on novel devices and configurations that interact directly with high-intensity beams, making a precise understanding of beam-environment effects a key prerequisite for their success.

You will carry out detailed electromagnetic simulations of novel PBC installations, quantify their impedance impact on beam stability, and propose or design mitigation solutions where required. The project also foresees the further development and application of innovative measurement techniques, such as non-wire bench methods, to characterise complex PBC structures experimentally. Another key task will be to advance the in-house Wakis code, extending its capabilities for PBC applications and benchmarking it against commercial solvers. In addition, you may contribute to high-intensity beam studies in the injector complex, further broadening the impact of the project.

This project offers a unique opportunity for a motivated researcher to work at the crossroads of novel physics experiments, advanced simulation, and cutting-edge impedance applications, with a direct impact on the success of the PBC programme.

Your Responsibilities

• Carry out electromagnetic simulations of novel PBC devices and installations.
• Quantify the impedance impact of these structures on high-intensity beam stability.
• Contribute to the development of innovative experimental methods (e.g. non-wire bench techniques) to characterise complex structures.
• Advance and benchmark the in-house Wakis code against commercial solvers, extending its capabilities for PBC applications.
• Propose or design mitigation solutions to ensure the safe integration of new experimental devices.
• Participate in high-intensity beam studies in the injector complex, supporting the PBC physics programme.

Your Profile

You Have:

• Experience in electromagnetic simulations or accelerator physics;
• An understanding of beam dynamics or high-intensity beams is an advantage;
• The motivation to work at the intersection of novel physics experiments, simulation tools, and experimental techniques;
• The ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary and international team environment.

Skills:

• Knowledge of electromagnetic simulation tools (e.g. CST, HFSS, COMSOL, or similar);
• Basic programming skills (e.g. Python, C++) for data analysis and code development;
• Familiarity with numerical methods and scientific computing;
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to learn new tools quickly;
• Good communication skills, both written and oral, in English;
• Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Eligibility Criteria:

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• You have a professional background in Applied physicist (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.
• 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.

Additional Information

• Job closing date: 30.11.2025 at 23:59 CET.
• Contract duration: 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.
• Working hours: 40 hours per week
• Job flexibility: Hybrid
• Target start date: 01-March-2026
• Job reference: BE-ABP-CEI-2025-161-GRAP
• Field of work: Applied Physics
• Benchmark job: 201140 - Principal Applied Physicist

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.