Superconducting Thin Film Coating Physicist

Job Description/Introduction:
Are you passionate about advancing thin-film technologies for superconducting applications? Step into a pivotal role driving innovation in particle acceleration coatings!

CERN operates the largest accelerator complex in the world where particles are accelerated by superconducting radiofrequency cavities. Are you interested in developing new superconducting thin films for a more efficient particle acceleration? Then come and join the Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings Group! Take part!

The Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings Group is responsible for all high and ultra-high vacuum systems for the CERN accelerators. Its mandate covers all activities from development to operation, including design, production and procurement, surface engineering and analysis, acceptance tests, control and monitoring. The Surface Coatings and Chemistry section (SCC) takes care of surface and chemical analyses, thin film coatings and surface finishing.

Functions:
Within the VSC Group of the TE Department, you will:
- Participate in R&D activities for thin films coating for Superconducting Radiofrequency (SRF) applications at CERN with a focus on coatings onto copper substrates;
- Contribute in the projects of SRF thin film coatings related to the upgrade and consolidation of existing facilities at CERN (LHC, HIE-ISOLDE);
- Coordinate the characterization of superconducting coatings by surface analysis, electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and other relevant techniques;
- Coordinate the activity of substrate preparation, coating and RF testing at CERN;
- Manage the established collaborations for SRF thin films R&D activities with external institutes;
- Design and upgrade dedicated physical vapor deposition (PVD) systems according to the identified materials and objects to coat;
- Transfer and upgrade the existing coating facilities to the new SRF dedicated building to be accessible in 2029;
- Promote innovation to maintain the Organization knowledge at the state of the art in the domain of superconducting thin films.

Qualifications:
Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of physics or material science (or equivalent) or a related field.

A PhD in the field of thin film coating would be an asset.

Experience:
Proven experience in the following fields:
- Elaboration of thin films by PVD;
- Characterization of thin films by X-Ray diffraction.

Knowledge of the following would be an advantage:
- SRF thin film coating and characterisation;
- Plasma characterization;
- Basic CAD design.

Technical competencies:
- Knowledge and application of superconducting materials;
- Production and analysis of thin-film coatings;
- Knowledge and application of materials, surface and thermal treatments for UHV;
- Knowledge and application of X-ray diffraction.

Behavioural competencies:
- 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;
- Communicating Effectively: providing others with timely information Ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented;
- Achieving Results: defining clear objectives, milestones and deliverables before initiating work/ project Dividing extensive work / projects into manageable sub-tasks with clearly defined milestones;
- Solving Problems: testing solutions for long-term suitability, cross-checking with all concerned before implementation. Recognizing what is essential; discriminating between important and peripheral information and being able to see the whole picture;
- Managing Self: maintaining a positive outlook even in difficult situations; demonstrating resilience and persistence in response to setbacks and adversity.

Language skills:
Spoken and written English in professional contexts, the willingness to learn French.

Additional Information/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.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 28.01.2025 at 23.45 Geneva time.

Employment Conditions:
Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:
- A valid driving licence;
- Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
- Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization;
- Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed;
- Interventions in underground installations

Please make sure you have all the documents needed to hand as you start your application, as once it is submitted, you will not be able to upload any documents or edit your application further.

Job location

Switzerland