ATLAS Forward Detector DAQ Developments (EP-ATL-AM-2026-119-GRAP)

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CERN’s Experimental Physics Department seeks a hands-on physicist for the ATLAS Forward Detector DAQ Developments role EP-ATL-AM-2026-119-GRAP, onsite in Geneva for 24 months with possible extension. You will contribute to the LUCID-3 and HL-ZDC upgrades by testing and validating detector readout components, developing and maintaining DAQ software, and designing online monitoring tools, while supporting lab activities to validate the full readout chain. The ideal candidate has proven DAQ experience in high energy physics, firmware and hardware and software integration, real time data quality and Level-1 trigger familiarity, strong C++/Python, UNIX/Linux, ROOT skills, and a proactive, collaborative mindset; willingness to learn French. Apply by 16 July 2026 with a Master’s 2 to 6 years or PhD 0 to 3 years and no prior CERN fellowship. Start date 1 October 2026.

Job Description

Are you a hands-on physicist with a strong interest in advanced detector technologies and software development? Join CERN's Experimental Physics (EP) Department and contribute to the next generation of instrumentation for the ATLAS experiment at the High-Luminosity LHC.

You will work in close collaboration with international teams contributing to the LUminosity Cherenkov Integrating Detector (LUCID-3) and the High-Luminosity Zero Degree Calorimeter (HL-ZDC).

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of experimental particle physics, combining hardware, firmware and software development in a highly collaborative and international environment.

Your responsibilities

• Contribute to the the testing and validation of components for the ATLAS Forward Detector upgrade.
• Development and maintenance of software for data acquisition electronics.
• Design and support of online monitoring tools.
• Play an active role in laboratory-based activities at CERN, including the testing of individual electronics components and the validation of the full detector readout chain within the Forward Detectors laboratories.

Your profile

• Proven experience with data acquisition systems in high-energy physics experiments, including detector readout and integration.
• Familiarity with firmware (e.g. FPGA-based systems) and hardware-software integration is highly desirable.
• Experience with online monitoring systems and real-time data quality assessment is an asset.
• Understanding of trigger systems (in particular Level-1) and detector control/operation concepts is advantageous.
• Practical experience in laboratory work, including testing and validation of electronics components and readout chains.

Skills

• Strong programming skills in C++ and Python, with solid experience in UNIX/Linux environments.
• Experience with ROOT-based data handling, analysis, and visualisation.
• Demonstrated problem-solving ability and a proactive, "can-do" attitude, with willingness to contribute to detector operation and on-call activities.
• Rigorous and well-organised approach to work, with attention to detail and ability to deliver high-quality results.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within an international, collaborative team environment.
• 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 related (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.

Additional Information

Job closing date: 16.07.2026 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-October-2026

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Exposure to risk of falling from heights during scaffolding assembly and dismantling operations.

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-ATL-AM-2026-119-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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