Optical Engineer Scientist (SY-STI-LPGRAP)

You will contribute to the design and development of laser and optical systems for the Advanced Wakefield Accelerator Experiment ( AWAKE) at CERN with a strong focus on laser opto-mechanical and optical control design and integration.

The systems are used for ionizing efficiently 10 m long Rb plasma columns and for optically synchronizing multiple laser and charge particle beams with femtosecond accuracy. The tasks include carrying out optical simulations and tolerancing studies designing and prototyping and commissioning opto-mechanical and fiber systems construct and operate ultrafast laser and optical systems and associated control devices ensuring system reliability under tight operational constraints.

You will collaborate closely with colleagues in the lasers and photocathodes section in optics and lasers research intelligent control systems to integration of sensors and actuators as well as supporting system installation and commissioning and documenting the work for future AWAKE operation and maintenance.

Your responsibilities :

• Optical system design for high-precision measurement / imaging / alignment systems. This includes both optical layout component selection and mechanical integration.
• Perform research studies (optical mechanical thermal vibrational) to ensure system performance under realistic operational conditions.
• Carry out optical simulations (e.g. ray tracing wave-optics stray light) using relevant software tools.
• Design prototype assemble and test opto-mechanical assemblies mounts with actuators alignment devices etc.
• Ensure optical design supports alignment stability environmental robustness (e.g. tolerance to temperature changes vibrations possibly radiation).
• Work closely with control systems engineers to integrate actuators / sensors feedback systems alignment control etc. Optional involvement in firmware / software / system calibration is a plus.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (optics mechanical electronics / controls) to deliver reliable accurate systems.
• Document design test plans and reports; assist in installation verification and maintenance of optical systems.

Your profile :

Skills :

Eligibility criteria :

a Masters degree with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience;

Additional Information :

Job closing date : 11.01.2026 at 23 : 59 CET.

Contract duration : 24 months with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.

Working hours : 40 hours per week

Job flexibility : Fully Onsite

Target start date : 01-March-2026

This position involves :

Job reference : SY-STI-LPGRAP

Field of work : Applied Physics

Benchmark job : 200140 - Applied Physicist

Global Benefits

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN the European Organization for Nuclear Research we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering technical scientific and administrative fields. Together we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe!  TAKE PART!

More information about us here :

Remote Work :

No

Employment Type : Full-time

Key Skills

Laboratory Experience,Immunoassays,Machine Learning,Biochemistry,Assays,Research Experience,Spectroscopy,Research & Development,cGMP,Cell Culture,Molecular Biology,Data Analysis Skills

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1