Applied Physicist - n_TOF Facility (SY-STI-BMP-2026-103-GRAP)

About CERN

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About the Role

The n_TOF facility at CERN provides high-intensity, wide-energy neutron beams for high-precision studies in nuclear astrophysics and medical applications. This position will focus on simulation studies with the aim of optimizing the facility's performance. You will contribute to neutronics validation and benchmarking of the latest neutron data libraries. The work will include the redesign of a collimation system as well as the design of a dedicated neutron transmission measurement station. You will also have the opportunity to gain experience in the operations of experimental facilities as part of the local support team for n_TOF.

Responsibilities

• Simulation studies for n_TOF facility physics performance optimization and future program.
• Redesign of a collimation system as well as the design of a dedicated neutron transmission measurement station.
• Quantifying and mitigating secondary radiation through optimized shielding configurations and design modifications.
• Use of FLUKA for advanced Monte Carlo modeling, including refinement of low-energy neutron transport, such as self-shielding effects in the unresolved resonance region and Doppler broadening corrections.
• Neutronics validation and benchmarking of the latest neutron data libraries.

Requirements

• Experience in using Monte Carlo transport codes for physics experiments.
• Experience performing studies in the field of neutron physics / neutronics.

Skills

• Neutron physics knowledge.
• Monte Carlo simulation.
• FLUKA knowledge would be an advantage.
• 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.

Additional Information

• 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-September-2026
• This position involves:
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

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.

More information about us

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