Applied Physicist-Electrical Engineering & Superconductivity (TE-MPE-PE-2021-88-LD) Geneva, Switzerland

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world’s largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter – fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Introduction

Are you interested in research, design and optimization of the protection methods of Nb3Sn and High Critical Temperature Superconducting (HTS) magnets for future particle accelerators? Take Part!

Within the TE Department, the MPE group provides support to the operation of the entire accelerator complex and develops, operates and maintains state of the art technology for magnet circuit protection and interlock systems.

The superconducting magnet circuits of CERN’s largest accelerator, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), operate with currents of up to 12 kA and stored energies of more than 1 GJ. The TE-MPE-PE section develops tools to better understand the behaviour and protection of these circuits, conducts studies of emerging protection issues, and monitors the evolution of their performance, see also https://twiki.cern.ch/twiki/bin/viewauth/TEMPEPE/. Furthermore, the section participates in all design studies for the magnet circuits of upcoming upgrades of the LHC and future accelerators.

Functions

As applied physicist in the TE-MPE-PE Section, you will:

• Design and optimize quench detection and protection systems of LTS and HTS high-field magnets;
• Develop new strategies, methods/techniques and tools for improved quench detection and protection beyond the state-of-the-art;
• Contribute to the further development of specific computer tools/models, often based on commercial software, as part of the framework for the simulation of steady-state and transient effects in superconducting wires, cables, magnets, and circuits;
• Cross-check the above-mentioned tools against other existing computer codes (if available) and validate the tools by means of experimental data obtained during tests on LTS and HTS model coils and magnets;
• Supervise technical and possibly doctoral students working on development of technology and tools for protection of high-field magnets.

PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of applied physics, electrical engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

The experience required for this post is:

• Demonstrated experience in the field of electromagnetics, thermodynamics, and applied superconductivity.
• Extensive experience in modern simulation techniques and, preferably, working experience with commercial multi-physics modelling tools.
• Experience in the field of superconducting magnet technology would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Design, analysis and optimization of thermal systems: thermal analysis & modelling.
• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: java, Python, MatLab, C++.
• Electromagnetic calculation & modelling.
• Quench phenomena and protection of superconducting magnets.
• Use of modelling and simulation software (finite-element, Comsol, Ansys).

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations; having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Solving problems: recognizing what is essential; discriminating between important and peripheral information and being able to see the whole picture Testing solutions for long-term suitability, cross-checking with all concerned before implementation.
• Working in teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities Cooperating constructively with others in the pursuit of team goals; balancing personal goals with team goals.
• Demonstrating flexibility: demonstrating openness to new ideas and situations Adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Learning and Sharing knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information; sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English: ability to draw-up technical specifications and/or scientific reports, and/or to make oral presentations. Basic knowledge of French language or an undertaking to acquire it rapidly.

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 30.08.2021 at 12pm CET

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 during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: TE-MPE-PE-2021-88-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Applied Physicist