Job description
EPFL has an opening for a scientific assistant to work on particle beam instrumentation, in the context of funded Innosuisse innovation project "Advanced Beam Diagnostics for Next-Generation Cancer Care" for the Startup Protonica ). The successful candidate will work on the development of an innovative proton beam profiler readout and control especially conceived for particle therapy accelerators; such a device is intended to be used as a beam profiler to characterize the beam transverse properties in several locations along the machine or as a quality assurance instrument. The successful candidate will develop the electronics, and the firmware needed to read from and control several photodiode arrays using an STM32 microcontroller, a Power-over-Ethernet interface towards a computer, with the goal to achieve synchronous readout of hundreds of channels at a high rate. The tasks involve components selection, and electronics schematic, layout, characterization, microcontroller programming, experiments with different sources and documentation.
Our offer
You will be appointed to a full-time position for one year (12 months) at the LUMES-EPFL laboratory. The
laboratory offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in a stimulating scientific and young startup environment. After the 12 months, the candidate could be hired by the startup Protonica, if funding will allow.
Initial contract
: 12 months, starting on 1st November 2025
Place and Infrastructure
: EPFL, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Institute of Physics, 1015 Lausanne
Your Profile
The candidate must have the ability to conduct electronics and firmware development. He/she has a strong
interest in enabling science through the development of state-of-the-art instrumentation.
Requirements
:
* MSc degree in Electronic Engineering, Computer Science or equivalent with a strong background in electronics.
* A PhD is considered a strong asset.
* Skills in schematic and layout design, preferably with Autodesk Fusion/Eagle and STM32 microcontroller programming with STM32CubeIDE are requested.
* Familiar with commonly used instruments to characterize electronics such as a power supply, oscilloscope, multimeter and function generator.
* Evidence of ability to work independently, and as an active collaborative member of a research team, who is well organized and self-motivated, while working cooperatively at all levels.
* He or she is expected to communicate project results and write technical documentation. Good command of English (both verbal and written) is a mandatory requirement for the position.
Information and Application
EPFL is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and encourages applications from women.
To apply, please send the following documents as PDF file (all document in English):
(1) Letter of motivation - optional
(2) CV
(3) Contact details of at least two referees (or letters of recommendation, if already available)
Applications must be submitted no later than 30 September 2025.
Please send your application by email to