Applied Physicist

What you’ll do

Your responsibilities

• Validate existing simulation tools against experimental data from superconducting magnet tests.
• Perform and assess simulations related to quench protection and ramp loss.
• Support the preparation of magnet test plans, including the definition of quench protection circuits.
• Analyse data collected during tests; produce clear visualisations, summaries, and technical reports.

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Your profile

• Experience with numerical simulations (e.g. finite-element, finite difference or multiphysics tools) and comparison with experimental data.
• Experience with experimental validation of numerical models.
• Experience with electrical circuits and/or cryogenic testing techniques.
• Experience with circuit simulations and analysis (e.g. PSPICE, XYCE).

Your skills

• Coding and scripting in Python or MATLAB for data analysis and visualisation.
• Basic understanding of superconductivity, magnet technology, and quench phenomena (LTS and/or HTS).
• Ability to work at the interface between simulations, experiments, and hardware testing.
• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and international team.

Global Benefits at CERN

• A monthly net stipend between 6372-7004 Swiss Francs per month 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.
  

Let’s get you ready

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

• You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State . Currently, we cannot consider applications from Pakistani and Lithuanian nationals for positions with a 2026 start date, as the ceiling defined under Article II.5 of the Associate Membership Agreement has been reached.
• By the application deadline, you have a master’s degree with 2 to 6 years of professional experience since graduation or a PhD with a maximum of 3 years of professional experience since graduation. You are not eligible with only a bachelor’s degree.
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• Please pay attention to the additional criteria and requirements for this specific position and mentioned above.

You will need these documents to complete your application

• Your CV (English or French)
• A copy of your most relevant diploma or a certificate of achievement from your school (if you don’t yet have your paper diploma)
• Any document you consider relevant to your application

Your CERN Department

of CERN

Ready To apply?

Be prepared with our resources and tips

• Our Hiring Process
• Life at CERN
• Tips for your Application
• Working at CERN
• What happens after you apply?
• More about CERN

All good?

Still have a doubt ? Here are the most frequently asked questions

• What should I expect during my first week at CERN?

  
  
  Your onboarding at CERN includes a comprehensive induction programme, which starts with an official welcome session at the beginning of each month. In addition, you will receive important information both before and after your arrival to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. This process is designed to help you get acquainted with CERN’s environment, your team, and the tools and systems you’ll be using.
  
  

• How big would the team be?

  
  The size of the team you’ll be working with at CERN depends on the specific role and department. Some teams are small and highly specialized, while others are larger and more interdisciplinary. During the interview process, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the team structure for the position you are applying for.
  

• What is the working language at CERN?

  
  The working languages at CERN are English and French. However, it is not always mandatory to speak both languages to work at CERN. We offer language training to help you acquiring the other language.
  

• What support does CERN provide for relocation?

  
  CERN does not offer direct assistance with relocation. However, depending on your role and specific criteria, you may be eligible for certain benefits such as an installation allowance and coverage of travel expenses to join CERN. These benefits are designed to help ease the transition when relocating to the Geneva area. For more information, please consult the "Salary, Benefits and Support" page.
  

• Do I need a visa to work at CERN?

  
  Whether you need a visa to work at CERN depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. CERN assists with the necessary visa and work permit processes for its employees and visitors. The specific requirements will be communicated to you during the recruitment process.
  

• What would my salary be?

  
  Salaries at CERN are determined by a structured scale. Salaries are based on your role, qualifications, and experience, and are not subject to negotiation. Specific details will be provided as your application progresses. For more information, please refer to the dedicated page.