Lead Research Scientist - High-Energy Particle Physics

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Conference participation

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Scientist in High-Energy Particle Physics at our East London facility, with hybrid work arrangements. You will lead experimental and theoretical efforts, collaborating with international groups and mentoring postdocs and students.

The role requires a PhD in Particle Physics, 10+ years postdoctoral experience, and strong programming (C++, Python, ROOT) and data analysis skills. You will contribute to detector technology and large collaborations.

Qualifications

• PhD in Particle Physics or closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years post-doctoral research experience with a strong track record.
• Proven expertise in experimental particle physics, including data analysis, detector physics, and simulation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct research initiatives in high-energy particle physics.
• Design, develop, and implement experimental apparatus and analysis techniques for particle physics experiments.
• Analyze large datasets from collider experiments and other facilities.
• Develop theoretical models and interpret results within the Standard Model and beyond.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Particle Physics

Tools

C++

Python

ROOT

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a world-leading research institution at the forefront of exploring the fundamental nature of matter and the universe. We are seeking an accomplished Lead Research Scientist in High-Energy Particle Physics to guide and expand our research activities. This key position is based at our advanced facility in EastLondon, EasternCape , with the potential for hybrid work arrangements. You will lead experimental and theoretical efforts investigating subatomic particles and their interactions, contributing to major international collaborations and developing novel detection technologies. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of quantum field theory and experimental particle physics, coupled with a proven ability to lead complex research projects and mentor junior scientists. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in physics within a dynamic and collaborative research environment in EastLondon .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and direct research initiatives in high-energy particle physics.
• Design, develop, and implement experimental apparatus and analysis techniques for particle physics experiments.
• Analyze large datasets from particle collider experiments and other relevant facilities.
• Develop theoretical models and interpret experimental results within the Standard Model and beyond.
• Collaborate actively with international research groups and large-scale experimental collaborations (e.g., CERN, Fermilab).
• Mentor and supervise postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and junior scientists.
• Publish research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
• Contribute to the development of proposals for new experiments and funding opportunities.
• Ensure the effective management of research resources and budgets.
• Contribute to the advancement of detector technology and instrumentation.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Particle Physics, High-Energy Physics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience with a significant track record of contributions to the field.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental particle physics, including data analysis, detector physics, and simulation techniques.
• Strong theoretical understanding of the Standard Model and potential extensions (e.g., supersymmetry, dark matter).
• Proven experience in leading research teams and managing complex experimental projects.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in physics research (e.g., C++, Python, ROOT).
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in contributing to large international collaborations is essential.
• A strong publication record in leading physics journals.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative and demanding research environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package for this Lead Research Scientist position in East London .
• This includes substantial performance bonuses, a generous retirement fund contribution, and extensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision).
• We are committed to fostering professional growth, offering opportunities to attend world-renowned scientific conferences, participate in workshops, and access advanced training.
• The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility, balancing focused research at our Eastern Cape facility with remote work.
• Employees will benefit from access to cutting‑edge experimental facilities and computational resources, working within a vibrant community of leading physicists.
• The collaborative culture and the potential to make fundamental discoveries create a uniquely rewarding career.
• Opportunities for career advancement are significant, recognizing and rewarding scientific leadership and impactful contributions to particle physics.