RICH Detector Development Physicist (EP-LCB-2026-49-GRAP)

As an applied physicist, you will be part of the RICH Detector strategic R&D activities and the LHCb RICH Upgrade project. This includes studies of novel single-photon detectors such as SiPMs (Silicon Photomultipliers) at cryogenic temperatures, calibrations of readout electronics in the sub-100 ps time domain and measurements of prototype optics for RICH detectors. Your work will combine hands-on activities (beam tests and measurements in the laboratory using picosecond pulsed laser illumination) with analysis of the performance of prototypes, simulation and the development of new detector designs and solutions.

Your responsibilities

• Actively participate in the LHCb RICH commissioning and electronics calibrations for the detector upgrade during LS3.
• Lead the qualification of prototype optics and RICH mirrors for future detector upgrades.
• Collaborate during beam tests and laboratory characterisation of single-photon detector prototypes, including data analysis.
• Engage with the module integration studies and system tests of SiPM sensors at cryogenic temperatures.

Your profile

• Demonstrated experience in applied physics.
• Proven understanding of HEP experiments and RICH detector designs.
• Experience in RICH detector tests (in laboratory and in test beams).
• Familiarity with readout electronics, DAQ systems and laboratory infrastructure.
• Proficiency in scientific writing and oral presentations.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work both autonomously and collaboratively in an international research environment.
• Extensive knowledge of laboratory equipment and techniques for single-photon detector measurements.
• Reliable, well-organised, and proactive approach to experimental work and calibration data analyses.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, and ROOT.
• 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 Physics (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.

Job closing date: 30.03.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Contract duration: 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.

Working hours: 40 hours per week

Job flexibility: Fully Onsite

Target start date: 01-July-2026

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Stand-by duty, and work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation. 
• Shift work.

Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job reference: EP-LCB-2026-49-GRAP

Field of work: Applied Physics

Benchmark job: 200140 - Applied Physicist

Global Benefits

• 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.

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