PhD position in Data Analysis for Particle Physics, LHCb Run 3, Cluster of Excellence Color meets Fl

PhD position in Data Analysis for Particle Physics, LHCb Run 3

Cluster of Excellence Color meets Flavor, University of Bonn, LHCb Group

The Cluster of Excellence “Color meets Flavor” invites applications for a PhD position in data analysis and software development. The position will be situated in the LHCb group at the University of Bonn and offer rich research opportunities in hadron spectroscopy.

Project Description:

One of the central topics of the Excellence Cluster “Color meets Flavor” (CmF) is the investigation of unconventional hadrons, such as tetraquarks and pentaquarks. In order to investigate the nature of the pentaquarks with hidden charm, you will analyze data collected by the LHCb experiment in Run 3 of the LHC. This dataset, obtained with the upgraded LHCb detector, offers the unique possibility of studying baryons containing one or more heavy quarks in multibody b‑baryon decays. The relevant decays have to be selected from the preprocessed datasets and corrected for detector effects. Building on the experience of the Bonn group and in close collaboration with the CmF theory groups, you will learn to implement coupled‑channel formalisms that will allow the simultaneous analysis of several decay channels.

Your research opportunities:

• Analysis of LHCb run 3 data: you will search for new decays of the pentaquarks, in particular those with charmed hadrons in the final state. Building on the analysis tools provided by the LHCb collaboration, you will develop selection, calibration and statistical analysis algorithms.
• Understanding of detector effects: a full understanding of the run 3 data is essential for the interpretation of the new data. You will be closely integrated with the LHCb collaboration in the joint efforts of simulation and data processing. Based on your skill‑set, you will join LHCb working groups where you can make an impact on the collective understanding of the run 3 data.
• Phenomenology: progress in the data interpretation in hadron physics critically hinges on improvements of the modeling of the relevant decay amplitudes. CmF provides a unique environment to drive this development through close cooperation between experimental and theoretical experts. You will be a crucial part of this development.
• Open data and digital research products: the Bonn group is leading the efforts to make data and digital research products available for sharing between researchers. Open science is an important part of our identity, and we see it as necessary to achieve the best understanding of the data across experiments. Building on these experiences you will implement your work following the principles of FAIR science.

Your Profile:

• An excellent Master degree in experimental particle physics, nuclear physics, or a related field.
• Experience in software development (e.g. C++, Python) and data analysis (statistical data analysis, basic machine learning).
• Interest in working closely together with phenomenologists to implement advanced amplitude models.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the enthusiasm to work across the CmF network and make an impact as part of an international collaboration.

The current position is embedded within the Cluster of Excellence “Color meets Flavor”, which offers an inspiring environment of world leading experts in hadron and flavor physics. As a cluster PhD candidate you will have access to dedicated training, research and industry events and you will be integrated into a vibrant research network, that connects key experiments, as well as excellent theory groups in hadron and high‑energy physics. This environment will allow you to grow your research network locally at Bonn and internationally in high‑profile particle physics collaborations. Within the cluster you will have access to additional mentoring on your thesis project and you will be integrated in the Bonn Cologne Graduate School.

We strive to build a diverse, inclusive and intercultural team and would be very interested in your perspective and your contributions to the life of the group.

If you are interested please contact Sebastian Neubert ( ) or Klaas Padeken ( ).