The Institute of Experimental Particle Physics (ETP) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to join their group. This position focuses on the intersection of machine learning and real-time electronics, developing algorithms for trigger systems at the Belle II experiment. The goal is to design trigger systems that process large detector inputs within tight latency budgets using hardware-algorithm co-design.
Job Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) |
| Research Area | Algorithm-Hardware Co-Design for Real-Time AI in Particle Physics |
| Location | Karlsruhe (and Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen), Germany |
| Salary | €66,800.00 to €81,900.00 gross per year (TV-L 13) |
| Contract Duration | 2 years |
| Last Date for Apply | December 15, 2026 |
Job Description
The successful candidate will lead the development and deployment of trigger algorithms for the Belle II upgrade. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing trigger algorithms for drift chamber tracking, global tracking, and the electromagnetic calorimeter.
- Leading the hardware deployment of tracking work on AMD Versal platforms.
- Collaborating with electronics engineers on firmware and hardware integration.
- Supervising students and doctoral researchers.
- Presenting research at international conferences and publishing in scientific papers.
- Contributing to LLM-based agents for firmware development and verification (if experienced).
Eligibility & Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field.
- Technical Skills: Experience in developing firmware for FPGAs or comparable hardware, including implementing machine learning models.
- Hardware Experience: Proven experience with verification and debugging on hardware.
- Languages: Excellent command of English. Knowledge of German at level B1 or above is preferred.
- Additional Assets: Experience with trigger or data acquisition systems, reconstruction algorithms, HLS, or AMD Versal AI Engines is a plus.
Benefits
- Career Development: Structured onboarding, continuing education options, and personalized support.
- Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours, remote-work options, and 30 days of annual leave.
- Family Support: Childcare services, holiday activities, and assistance with caring for relatives.
- Health & Wellness: Fitness classes and mental health programs.
- Extra Benefits: Corporate pension (VBL) and monthly JobTicket BW contribution.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the KIT online application portal using the job posting number 1272/2026. For technical information regarding the position, please contact Prof. Dr. Torben Ferber at torben.ferber@kit.edu.
Apply Link: Apply Online Here
Application Deadline: December 15, 2026
