Technical Students for Next Generation Trigger Project 2026

Job Description

What you'll do

In the coming upgrade to the Trigger system of the CMS Experiment many machine learning algorithms are being developed which will use low-level detector information to make decisions on whether to keep data or not. These algorithms will be exposed to a dynamic inference environment that will not only differ from their training environments but evolve over time as the detector conditions change. In the context of the Next Generation Trigger project you will explore continual learning approaches to incrementally updating trigger algorithms with new data specifically focusing on decision tree-based algorithms. The project will explore changing environments in the CMS detector as well as designing novel ways of training and updating decision trees. There will be opportunity to explore the implementation of these continual learning training techniques within the wider CMS trigger ML training infrastructure.

Your responsibilities

• Develop an understanding of implementing machine learning in dynamic environments, including the impact on output quality and methods to mitigate these effects.
• Acquire experience in developing and applying machine learning for the CMS trigger system, including fast machine learning and the techniques required to design trigger algorithms.
• Acquire experience in Python programming and code development within larger teams, including machine learning operations (MLOps) and ML infrastructure.

Your profile

• You are currently studying in Applied Physics, Engineering Physics or a related field.
• You are required or encouraged by your university to complete a practical training period.
• You are eager to develop your skills through on-the-job learning.
• You enjoy teamwork and learning from others in a collaborative setting.

Your skills

• A good understanding of applied physics fundamentals relevant to your studies.
• Curiosity, precision and a proactive attitude towards learning.
• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.

Additional Information

This call is open to nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State and nationals of Non-Member States from Institutes in the LHC experiments collaborations.

Application Deadline: 26/01/26 at 23:59 (Geneva time)

Employment Conditions:

• Ideal Start Date: 01/05/2026
• Weekly Working Hours: 40
• Contract duration (in months): 4 to 12
• Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

Global Benefits

• A monthly allowance of 3452 Swiss Francs (tax free).
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive Health Insurance scheme (the contribution will be automatically deducted from your allowance).
• Family supplement to subsistence allowance, depending on your individual circumstances.
• Travel expenses to Geneva upon joining CERN, depending on your individual circumstances.

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

• You are a national of a CERN Member State or Associate Member State.
• You have completed at least 18 months of your studies (3 semesters) in the respective field at the time of the selection. PhD students or holders are not eligible.
• You have a good knowledge of English or French.
• You remain enrolled as a full-time student during your studentship.

You will need these documents to complete your application

• Your CV (English or French)
• Any document you consider relevant to your application
• An academic reference letter (optional)
• An academic transcript (optional)

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: careers.cern

Global Benefits

• A monthly allowance of 3452 Swiss Francs (tax free).
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive Health Insurance scheme (the contribution will be automatically deducted from your allowance).
• Family supplement to subsistence allowance, depending on your individual circumstances.
• Travel expenses to Geneva upon joining CERN, depending on your individual circumstances.

Be sure to meet the eligibility criteria

• You have completed at least 18 months of your studies (3 semesters) in the respective field at the time of the selection. PhD students or holders are not eligible.
• You have a good knowledge of English or French.
• You remain enrolled as a full-time student during your studentship.

You will need these documents to complete your application

• Your CV (English or French)
• Any document you consider relevant to your application
• An academic reference letter (optional)
• An academic transcript (optional)

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: careers.cern