researcher on direct search for dark matter with the DarkSide experiment (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

Dark matter is one of the great enigmas of fundamental physics today. Its contribution to the total mass of the Universe is 85%, but it cannot be explained within the framework of the Standard Model of particle physics (SM). However, several candidates for dark matter exist in theories beyond the SM, and the WIMP (Weakly Interacting Massive Particle) is one of the best motivated of these candidates, as it allows to also solve the SM hierarchy problem, directly linked to the stability of the Higgs boson mass.
Experiments searching directly for dark matter use our galaxy halo as a potential source of WIMPs. The leading technology for WIMP masses above 1 GeV is based on the measurement of the scintillation light from the scattering of a WIMP on a liquid noble atom argon or xenon. In this framework, the DarkSide-20k (DS-20k) experiment, which will be installed 1.4 km underground in the Gran Sasso laboratory (LNGS) in Italy, is the third generation of liquid argon detectors. A key feature of these detectors is to use the pulse shape discrimination capability of argon, which allows for an instrumental background free search for high mass WIMPs. The DS-20k experiment will use a time projection chamber of 3.5 m diameter and 3.5 m high filled with 50 tons of purified argon and read out by 200,000 silicon photomultipliers. This will allow to have the world leading discovery potential for WIMPs after few years of data taking. The actual work is dedicated to the construction of the detector at the LNGS. Data taking should start in 2029.
The subject of this postdoctoral position, funded by the CNRS for two years, is to prepare the analysis of the first data in order to benefit from the CPPM's investment in DarkSide-20k over the past 8 years. For that, the candidate will first participate to the simulation and the installation of the calibration system, designed and validated at CPPM. In parallel, the candidate will improve data reconstruction algorithms by using artificial intelligence techniques (e.g. neural networks), to optimize the separation between signal and backgrounds. Finally, he (she) will participate to the preparation of the first physics analyses using at best the expertise developed at CPPM on the DarkSide-20k sensitivity studies to WIMPs of low (<10 GeV) and high mass (>100 GeV). More details about the team in https://www.cppm.in2p3.fr/web/en/research/astroparticles/index.html#Dark%20Matter

Activity

The candidate will be involved in all experimental aspects, from installing the calibration system to the event reconstruction and the preparation of the data analysis. He/she may also participate in supervising interns and doctoral students.

Your Profil

Skills

Candidates must have a recent thesis in experimental particle or astroparticle physics when starting the position, and ideally have a maximum of two years' professional experience after the thesis. Skills in detector simulation, reconstruction algorithm development and data analysis will be required. A solid knowledge of Python and/or C++ is also essential for this position. Finally, a good command of spoken and written English is required.

Your Work Environment

Located in the heart of the Parc National des Calanques, on the Luminy campus, the CPPM is a joint research laboratory of the CNRS and Aix-Marseille University, with around 180 researchers, engineers and PhD students. The laboratory studies subjects ranging from particle physics to astroparticle physics and cosmology, with a strong technological focus on electronics, mechanics, instrumentation and computing, enabling the design and construction of cutting-edge detection systems, often called upon to operate under extreme conditions: in the depths of the sea, in space or underground. Most of our research is carried out as part of leading international scientific collaborations, and our contributions are recognized worldwide. CPPM is committed to conducting ethical research and promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and provides administrative and logistical support for newcomers (https://www.cppm.in2p3.fr).
The successful candidate will be part of the dark matter team, which comprises a dozen members.
During his/her contract, the candidate will travel regularly to the LNGS lab to participate to the integration of the calibration system.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

between 3131.32 and 3569.85 gross monthly depending of experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions