Detector Engineer

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France.

Through its innovative engineering, pioneering scientific vision and a strong commitment from its 700 staff members, the ESRF is recognised as one of the top research facilities worldwide. Its particle accelerator produces intense X-ray beams that are used by thousands of scientists each year for experiments in diverse fields such as biology, medicine, environmental sciences, cultural heritage, materials science, and physics.

Supported by 21 countries, the ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity.

Within the framework of the upgrade of the facility (https://ebs.esrf.fr/about-us), the ESRF started the study and prototyping of a new high-performance 2D hybrid pixel X-ray detection system based on a novel readout concept and optimised for the new generation high-energy, high-brilliance synchrotron radiation sources. The project continues as part of a international collaboration called Xidyn, composed of five European partners, and aims at concluding the R&D phase and preparing the development and engineering of the final detector.

You will integrate a team of scientists and engineers specialized in X-ray detection, electronics and software to finalise the last stages of the R&D studies, evaluate the final system performance and prepare the development of the full-size X‑ray detection systems. You will contribute to the dissemination of the results in scientific conferences and publications and collaborate with other research laboratories, academic and industrial partners at an international level.

The duties of this position include:

• Contribute to the preparation of the next run of prototypes and/or full-size demonstrators in collaboration with project partners;
• Estimate the detection performance and limitations of the full-size final detectors with Monte Carlo simulation tools;
• Implement specific characterization and data analysis methods to assess the data quality of the detectors;
• Define and implement effective calibration schemes. Assess the quality of calibration procedures with experimental results;
• Contribute to the X-ray characterisation of detector prototype assemblies built with existing test readout ASICs and pixelated sensors by using synchrotron beams and conventional laboratory sources;
• Characterise the response of the high-density compound sensor materials under high-flux illumination at high energies up to 100 keV;
• A higher university degree (Master or equivalent diploma offering 300 ECTS) in physics, electronics or closely related area. A PhD in this field would be an asset;
• At least two years of practical experience working with experimental physics equipment, preferably X-ray or particle detectors;
• Good background on solid state detection, particle or X-rays, and some experience with pixelated semiconductor detectors;
• Experience in experimental physics and knowledge of X-ray sources and associated equipment (lab instrumentation, radioactive sources);
• Familiarity with instrumentation hardware, data acquisition and instrument control;
• Solid competence in scientific programming (Python);
• A genuine interest and interpersonal skills for a smooth integration into a multidisciplinary and international environment, team spirit;
• Good level of abstraction of complex problems and critical thinking;
• Autonomous, well-organised and methodical;
• Good writing, presentation and technical documentation skills;
• Project and time management skills will be an asset;
• Proficiency in English (working language at the ESRF).

The salary will be calculated on the basis of relevant qualifications and professional experience.

Do you recognize yourself in this description? Apply now for your next professional adventure!

What we offer:

Join an innovative international research institute, with a workforce from 38 different countries;

Collaborate with global experts to advance science and address societal challenges;

Come and live in a vibrant city, in the heart of the Alps, and Europe’s Green Capital 2022;

Enjoy a workplace designed to support your quality of life;

Benefit from our competitive compensation and allowances package, including financial support for your relocation to Grenoble For further information on employment terms and conditions, please refer to https://www.esrf.fr/home/Jobs/what-we-offer.html.

The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.