Hadron Sources and LINACs Physicist (BE-ABP-HSL-2026-27-GRAP)

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CERN is looking for a Hadron Sources and LINACs Physicist to join a team performing Linac4 source extraction studies, beam dynamics simulations, and measurements, including implementing Linac4 models in Xsuite and benchmarking with Travel, TraceWin and Toutatis. You will study linac beam dynamics, propose designs to reduce transverse emittance and raise RFQ acceptance, and validate them at the source test stand, while benchmarking existing models in Xsuite. The ideal candidate has experience in electromagnetic or accelerator simulations, hands-on experiments, and particle source design, plus knowledge of Travel, TraceWin, Toutatis, IBSIMU or Xsuite and Python or C++. Eligibility requires CERN Member State nationality and a master's with 2 to 6 years or PhD with up to 3 years postgrad, no prior CERN fellowship. Start 01 May 2026; deadline 11 March 2026. Tips: tailor your CV to Linac4 beam dynamics and benchmarking results, quantify improvements, and highlight readiness to learn French.

Job Description

You will join a team working on sources and LINACs beam dynamics simulations. In this position, you will take charge of Linac4 source extraction studies, design and measurements. This includes the implementation of existing models in Xsuite and benchmark with TraceWin and Travel codes.

Your responsibilities

• Get familiar with linac beam dynamics codes and the existing machine models under HSL section responsibility.
• Study the Linac4 source extraction. Propose and implement new designs aiming at reducing the transverse beam emittance and increasing the beam current into the RFQ acceptance. Qualify those at the source test stand with beam measurements.
• Implement the existing Linac4 models (Travel, TraceWin, Toutatis) in Xsuite. Proceed to a detailed code benchmark.

Your profile

• Experience in electromagnetic or accelerator simulations.
• Proven ability to work on both simulations and hands-on experiments.
• Demonstrated experience of work in the design and/or operation of particle sources for accelerators or a similar scientific field.
• Experience with one of the following codes would be an asset (Travel, TraceWin, Toutatis, IBSIMU, Xsuite).

Skills

• Knowledge of beam dynamics simulation.
• Knowledge of electromagnetic simulation tools (Opera, CST, Superfish, etc...).
• Basic programming skills (Python, C++).
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to learn new tools.
• 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 Applied Physics, Engineering (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: 11.03.2026 at 23:59 CET.

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

Working hours: 40 hours per week

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Target start date: 01-May-2026

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
• Exposure to electromagnetic fields under certain exposure conditions.

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

Job reference: BE-ABP-HSL-2026-27-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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