Competition # 603

ALPHA-g Project Scientist

ALPHA (Antihydrogen Laser PHysics Apparatus) is a leading antihydrogen experiment located at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research in Geneva Switzerland. The Canadian group (ALPHA-Canada) is a significant group in ALPHA, including scientists from University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, York University, and TRIUMF, Canada's national laboratory for particle and nuclear physics and accelerator-based science. The ALPHA Collaboration has had considerable successes in the past several years in advancing the science and technology of antimatter, achieving many world-firsts including: isolation of anti-atoms; stable and long-term storage, and precision measurements via microwave and laser spectroscopy. The ALPHA-g project is a new initiative by the ALPHA collaboration to measure the gravitational interaction of antimatter. The project is supported by significant funding by the Canada Foundation for Innovations (CFI) and other national and international partners. The ALPHA-g apparatus will feature a 3 meter tall cryogenic, superconducting magnetic trap. Antihydrogen atoms will be created, captured, cooled and then dropped, in order to study if antimatter falls in the same way as matter does in the field of the Earth gravity.

In support of the ALPHA-g project, we have an immediate opening for an ALPHA-g Project Scientist, who will provide hands-on technical and project management support to help ensure the successful completion of the project. This is a contract, grant-funded position administered through TRIUMF. The successful applicant will be located at CERN, and occasional travel to Canada may be required. The initial contract is for 2 year, and will be renewed annually based on mutual satisfaction and continued funding for the project.

As Project Scientist, you will make leading contributions to the ALPHA-g Project. Your primary responsibilities will include:

  • Ensuring the success of the ALPHA-g CFI Project through hands-on technical and scientific work on the construction, commissioning, and operation of the ALPHA-g Apparatus, as well as through efficient project management and administration
  • Providing technical and scientific oversight, guidance and support to technicians, postdocs and students working on ALPHA-g related projects
  • Interfacing with the CFI Principle Investigator (PI), the ALPHA-g Project Coordinator, and the U Calgary Research Services team on project progress and details, and ensuring compliance with regulations of CFI and other agencies in terms of project process, documentations and safety.

Click here to view the detailed job description.

If you are excited by the prospect of joining this research collaboration and contributing to the unique and exciting ALPHA-g project, we encourage you to apply. During an interview you will be asked to elaborate to the hiring committee how your skills, training and experience match the following position requirements:

  • Experience leading a research initiative/project, and a healthy publication record in experimental physics or related field
  • Highly effective time and project management skills, including personal initiative, organizational and supervisory skills, and attention to detail and accuracy
  • Advanced knowledge of design, assembly, commissioning and optimization of experimental physics systems in relevant areas such as cryogenics, ion and atom trapping, particle detection, particle beam transport, vacuum technology, monitoring systems, microwave technologies and laser systems
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of a team, and communicate with internal and external stakeholders from multiple organizations of all levels
  • Ability to work effectively and efficiently in a high pressure environment with multiple simultaneous priorities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and automated DAQ and Control software and hardware
  • Willingness and ability to learn relevant U Calgary and CERN online administrative and reporting systems
  • Excellent verbal and written English communication skills
  • A PhD or equivalent in Physics or Engineering, with relevant experience in leadership of an experimental project

While not prerequisites, the following will be considered assets:

  • Proficiency with sub-atomic physics simulation and analysis programs
  • Experience with PeopleSoft or similar administrative software
  • Verbal and written French communication skills

Applicants must be willing and able to work in, or obtain a work visa to work in Switzerland.

When submitting your application, please provide the names and contact information for 3 referees who will provide letters if requested. The review of applications will begin on October 30, 2017 and will continue until the position is filled.

TRIUMF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace, and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Your complete application package should be submitted by email to recruiting@triumf.ca and will include the following in one complete PDF file:

Applications will be accepted until 2018-01-21

TRIUMF Human Resources, 2017-10-18

4004 Wesbrook Mall Vancouver, B.C. Canada V6T 2A3   ·   Tel: 604 222-1047   ·   Fax: 604 222-1074   ·   www.triumf.ca