Postdoctoral Researcher in Neutrino Physics – Japan (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

The successful candidate will be responsible for applying our deep-learning-based reconstruction algorithm (CAVERNS-WatChMaL) to atmospheric data from Super-Kamiokande and T2K. They will carry out the first Super-Kamiokande oscillation analysis based on a deep-learning algorithm, with the goal of surpassing the results obtained using our traditional likelihood-based algorithms. As the algorithm is already highly advanced, the main focus of the position will be its validation against the experiment's calibration data.

The researcher will first work on improving the robustness of the reconstruction algorithm against differences between the simulated data used for training and the actual Super-Kamiokande data. Once the comparisons with the finalized calibration samples have been completed, the researcher will then develop the analysis pipeline to test the algorithm on atmospheric data and produce the new samples, which will be compared with those obtained using the traditional likelihood-based method. Finally, with this more robust algorithm, the researcher will evaluate the systematic uncertainties, carry out sensitivity studies, and perform neutrino oscillation analyses. In a minimal scenario, the researcher will test the algorithm on atmospheric data; however, we are currently assessing the possibility of extending the work to a joint analysis combining beam and atmospheric neutrino data.

To achieve these objectives, the candidate will work closely with the teams at ILANCE, LLR, and IPMU. They will have the opportunity to supervise several students who are already heavily involved in this development, in particular two students currently working on the T2K and Super-Kamiokande atmospheric analyses. The candidate will also have the unique opportunity to participate directly in the construction of the Hyper-Kamiokande detector on site in Kamioka.

Activity

Finalization of the complete event reconstruction and systematic uncertainty estimation pipeline for Super-Kamiokande.
Reduction of Super-Kamiokande systematic uncertainties using machine learning, control samples, and other techniques.
Testing of the algorithms on Super-Kamiokande calibration data, as well as accelerator (T2K) and atmospheric (SK) data.
Participation in the Super-Kamiokande neutrino oscillation analysis.
Participation in the construction of the Hyper-Kamiokande detector.
Presentation of results at collaboration meetings and conferences.
Publication of results in peer-reviewed journals.

Your Profil

Skills

* PhD in experimental particle physics.
* Strong programming skills in Python, C++, and ROOT; knowledge of Fortran is desirable.
* Proficiency in written and spoken English (minimum B2 level).
* Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively within a collaborative team.

Given the ambitious nature of the project, the successful candidate is expected to possess a strong background in neutrino physics and event reconstruction. Significant experience in machine learning will be considered an asset. In addition, the candidate should demonstrate a high degree of scientific independence and be willing and able to supervise students in order to achieve the project's ambitious objectives.

Your Work Environment

**ILANCE Laboratory, CNRS-IN2P3 / The University of Tokyo**

ILANCE stands for *International Laboratory for Astrophysics, Neutrino and Cosmology Experiments*. It is a joint laboratory between the CNRS and the University of Tokyo, located on the Kashiwa Campus of the University of Tokyo. Its primary research areas include cosmology, dark matter, neutrino physics, and particle physics.

Over the coming decade, the major experiments planned in these fields have the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the formation and evolution of the Universe, with significant contributions from the ILANCE teams. This international laboratory provides an exceptional educational and research environment for French and Japanese PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting students.

Based in Japan, ILANCE brings together researchers, students, postdoctoral fellows, engineers, and technicians from the CNRS and Japanese institutions. The laboratory includes both international scientists undertaking long-term stays in Japan and Japanese physicists.

The neutrino group is led by Benjamin Quilain and Michel Gonin and focuses on neutrino oscillation experiments in Japan: T2K, Super-Kamiokande, and Hyper-Kamiokande. The group currently consists of two permanent researchers, two postdoctoral researchers, and five PhD students holding joint appointments between ILANCE and the Laboratoire Leprince-Ringuet (UMR 7638).

Within the context of this project, the group leader coordinates the Hyper-Kamiokande reconstruction effort and contributes to the T2K oscillation analysis working groups. The group also collaborates closely with the IPMU team (P. De Perio et al.) and software engineers at LLR to establish strong leadership in the development of machine-learning-based algorithms that are usable, robust, and thoroughly validated before the start of Hyper-Kamiokande operations.

Depending on the candidate's interests, up to six months per year may be spent in France working at the Laboratoire Leprince-Ringuet.

Travel to Kamioka and/or Kyoto is expected in order to finalize analyses and/or participate in detector construction activities and data-taking shifts.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

€2,991.58 to €4,756.76 gross per month, depending on 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

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