Job Description
Introduction
You are invited to contribute to advancing thin-film technologies for superconducting applications, driving innovation in particle acceleration coatings.
CERN operates the largest accelerator complex in the world where particles are accelerated by superconducting radiofrequency cavities. If you are interested in developing new superconducting thin films for a more efficient particle acceleration, come and join the Vacuum, Surfaces and Coatings Group.
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
* 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
A Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of physics or material science (or equivalent) or a related field is required.
A PhD in the field of thin film coating would be an asset.
Experience:
* 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;
* Communicating Effectively: providing others with timely information;
* Achieving Results: defining clear objectives, milestones and deliverables before initiating work/project;
* Solving Problems: testing solutions for long-term suitability, cross-checking with all concerned before implementation;
* 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
This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than January 28th 2025 at 23:45 Geneva time.