Engineer / Applied Physicist in Thermodynamics (TE-CRG-CL-2024-56-LD)

Functions

As an engineer in thermodynamics or applied physicist in the Cryolab section, you will be working on the design, fabrication, installation, and operation of cryogenic test stations for the CERN Quantum Technology Initiative. In a first instance a test station shall be constructed to run a RF cavity for Axion searches at temperatures down to about 800 mK, while in the second half of the contract period a test station shall be designed and constructed to be used in the development of Transition Edge Sensors operational down to the 100’s mK region.

The design and fabrication of these laboratory test stands shall be done in collaboration with the future users of these test stations, with Cryolab colleagues and with external experts and shall be based on thermodynamic calculations and simulations. The guiding of technical students, PhD students or fellows participating to your studies, will be part of your responsibility.

Your functions will include:

Collect the theoretical and experimental requirements to be translated in project and research activities
Conceive the low temperature tests stations in collaboration with their future users and design, build and commission the low-temperature test stations accordingly
Operate the test stations and analyze the low-temperature data to continuously improve the thermodynamic conditions for the experiments mounted on these stations
Guide, advice and teach the graduates working on the project on their cryogenic/thermodynamic topics and more globally support the Cryolab colleagues in your role as expert
Ensure interfacing and reporting to various stakeholders from within the Quantum Technology Initiative and beyond if necessary
Represent the Organization at conferences, workshops, or in other research laboratories and institutions
Qualifications
Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of applied physics, thermodynamics, mechanical engineering or a related field.

Experience:

Proven experience in the development of the conceptual design of complex scientific instruments
Demonstrated experience in the construction follow-up and in the performance of low temperature experiments, and in the analysis of the data collected through these experiments
Experience in the field of thermodynamic modeling of complex cryogenic systems with numerical tools
Technical competencies:

Design, analysis and optimization of thermal systems
Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in fluid mechanics and/or heat transfer
Knowledge and application of thermal and/or fluid measurement techniques
Knowledge and application of thermodynamics and energetics
Development of application software
Behavioural competencies:

Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point
Learning and Sharing Knowledge: thinking "out of the box" and proposing fresh ideas, insights and methodologies
Working in Teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships
Demonstrating Flexibility: demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change
Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen
Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French: ability to understand and speak the other language or the undertaking to acquire it rapidly.

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 18.05.2024

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

These functions require:

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: TE-CRG-CL-2024-56-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist

Please make sure you have all the documents needed to hand as you start your application, as once it is submitted, you will not be able to upload any documents or edit your application further