Laser Scientist ISOLDE RILIS (SY-STI-LPS-2026-159-GRAP)

CERN's ISOLDE facility is preparing to relaunch its Resonance Ionisation Laser Ion Source (RILIS) after a major rebuild. The laboratory that houses the laser installation is being expanded and modernised, with the aim of delivering ion beams to a global community of more than a thousand scientists by the summer of 2028. The position of Laser Scientist ISOLDE RILIS will lead the re‑installation and commissioning of the laser system, ensuring it operates continuously and reliably for user programmes. The day‑to‑day work involves fitting the lasers and integrating the necessary hardware and software to run RILIS around the clock. You will set up automated beam‑stabilisation and monitoring, test new pump lasers, and develop resonance ionisation schemes that move the source toward a fully solid‑state laboratory. Detailed documentation of the system, including an operational requirement specification, will be produced, and you will take part in the source's operation, including on‑call duties that cover nights, weekends and holidays. The role requires proven experience in installing, commissioning and operating complex laser installations, together with a solid background in experimental photonics, laser physics or optical instrumentation. You must have worked with laboratory automation, control systems and scientific software development, and be capable of producing technical documentation and operational procedures. Fluency in spoken and written English is essential, and you should be prepared to learn French. Candidates must be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State, hold a Master's degree with two to six years of post‑graduation experience or a PhD with up to three years of experience, and must not have previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract. The position is fully onsite at CERN, with a 40‑hour work week and regular standby duties that include nights, Sundays and official holidays. You will work in radiation areas and be exposed to certain occupational hazards, requiring medical clearance before a contract is confirmed. The contract runs for 24 months with the possibility of extension to 36 months, and includes a competitive monthly stipend, 30 days of paid leave plus a two‑week annual closure, comprehensive health insurance, pension membership, family allowances, a relocation package and on‑the‑job training, including language classes. The team is international and multidisciplinary, offering a dynamic environment for scientific innovation. What the role asks for: - Experience installing, commissioning, operating complex laser systems - Background in experimental photonics, laser physics or optical instrumentation - Laboratory automation, control systems and scientific software development experience - Proven ability to prepare technical documentation and operational procedures - Fluent spoken and written English, willing to learn French - National of a CERN Member or Associate Member State - Master's degree with 2‑6 years post‑graduation experience or PhD with ≤3 years - No previous CERN fellow or graduate contract