Applied Physicist - Silicon-Detector R&D and DAQ, Geneva, Switzerland (EP-DT-SD-2025-242-GRAP)
Role highlights
Full Time
Permanent
Senior
On-site
The role of Applied Physicist in Silicon-Detector R&D and DAQ at CERN requires specialized expertise in advanced silicon pixel detector technologies, particularly monolithic pixel detectors used in cutting-edge experimental physics projects such as the DRD3 OCTOPUS initiative. Candidates must have hands-on experience with pixel-detector test-data acquisition using particle beams, radioactive sources, or laser-light injections, and be proficient in analyzing experimental results to support detector development and optimization. A strong background in developing, commissioning, and operating FPGA-based data acquisition systems is essential, alongside practical knowledge of silicon-detector test setups. The position demands proficiency in programming languages including VHDL for FPGA development, C/C++ for system-level programming, and Python for data analysis and scripting. Familiarity with code management and version control tools such as Git is also required. Effective communication skills are critical for presenting and documenting results within multidisciplinary teams and for supervising students and visiting scientists. Fluency in English or French is necessary, with a commitment to learning the basics of the other language. The candidate should have formal education in Physics or Electronics Engineering, reflecting a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of detector technologies and data acquisition. The role involves working in radiation areas and requires onsite presence in Geneva. A valid driver's license is also needed. Overall, this position suits a technically skilled physicist or engineer with experience in silicon detector R&D, FPGA-based DAQ systems, and collaborative scientific research in a high-energy physics environment.
About the role
Join the CERN Experimental Physics department's R&D program on technologies for future experiments, focusing on advanced silicon pixel detectors. Work on monolithic pixel detectors for the DRD3 OCTOPUS project, develop and adapt the Caribou data-acquisition system, and lead test-beam data-taking and analysis. Collaborate closely with the EP R&D team and international DRD3 partners.
Responsibilities
- Perform laboratory and test-beam data taking campaigns for monolithic pixel sensors
- Analyze test data
- Develop, commission, and operate FPGA-based data acquisition systems
- Report findings in project meetings
- Supervise students and visiting scientists working on the project
Requirements
- Experience with pixel-detector test-data taking using particle beams, radioactive sources, or laser-light injections
- Analysis of experimental results
- Experience developing or maintaining silicon-detector test setups
- Experience with FPGA-based data acquisition systems
- Studies focused on Physics or Electronics Engineering
Skills
- Knowledge of silicon pixel detectors and readout systems
- Programming languages: VHDL, C/C++, Python
- Code management/version control: Git
- Ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams
- Presentation and documentation of results
- Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the basics of the other language
Employment Conditions
- Work in Radiation Areas
- Fully onsite
- Team supervision
- Contract duration: 24 months
- Ideal start date: 01/03/2026
Other Information
- Driver's license: B Almindelig bil
- Please note in your application that you found the job at Jobindex
How to Apply
- Read more and apply online: https://careers.cern/jobs/applied-physicist-silicon-detector-daq/
- Latest application date: 16.01.2026 at 23:59 Geneva time
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