Company Description

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. 

Job Description

Introduction

The CERN ATLAS Team plays a major role in the construction and integration of the future silicon ATLAS Inner Tracker (ITk). The different parts of the ITk system are being constructed and integrated in institutes and then transported to CERN where the entire ITk will be assembled.
As an applied physicist or engineer in the CERN-ATL Team, you will join the Tracker section (EP-ATL-TRK) and work closely with the teams in the different institutes to synchronise the integration testing of the ATLAS ITk parts on surface, support their integration and commissioning into the ATLAS ITk and prepare the cavern commissioning.

Functions

• Testing and verification of  integrated ITk Strip Barrel and Endcap structures and services in the surface integration facility (SR1) at CERN.
• Work closely with integration sites off CERN, e.g. DESY or NIKHEF, synchronise the testing and provide trouble shooting support for integration teams including support at the sites.            
• Develop software and hardware elements for the integration testing of ITk Barrel and Endcaps in the various integration sites and validate the procedures in SR1.
• Streamline and document procedures for ITk integration testing and service validation and extend the testing procedures for the ITk Detector after installation and during commissioning.
• Participate hands-on in the ITk Detector integration work in the ATLAS SR1 cleanroom and during ITk installation in the cavern including the preparation of equipment in the cavern.

Qualifications

Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Applied Physicist or Engineering or a related field.

 

Experience:

• Proven experience in the integration, testing and operation of silicon detectors for high energy physics experiments.
• Proven experience in integration and commissioning of silicon trackers including services validation.
• Demonstrated experience in the development of DAQ/online software or detector control systems for silicon detectors in high energy physics experiments.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and streamlining testing procedures.
• Demonstrated experience in integration and commissioning of silicon trackers including services validation.

The following experience would be an advantage:

• Previous work on particle detector operation in an experiment.
• Assembly of sensitive equipment in a clean room environment.

Technical competencies:

• Testing and validation of detector, accelerator and beam line components.
• Assembly and integration of detectors.
• Construction, test and installation of electromechanical equipment and systems.
• Development of application software.
• Assembly and integration of infrastructure for detectors or experimental facilities.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Working in Teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Additional Information

Eligibility and closing date:

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. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 08.11.2026 at 23:59 CET.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (4 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: EP-ATL-TRK-2026-207-LD

Field of work: Applied Physics

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 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, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern