TRIUMF

Python Software Developer - Accelerator Physics Student

TRIUMF – Vancouver, BC Full time

Discover TRIUMF, Canada's particle accelerator centre, and one of the world's leading laboratories for particle and nuclear physics and accelerator-based science. TRIUMF's diverse community of nearly 600 multidisciplinary researchers, engineers, technicians, tradespeople, staff, and students create a unique incubator for Canadian excellence, as well as a portal to premier global collaborations.  Fueling innovation and improving lives, we are committed to accelerating discovery and shaping a better world.

Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to excellence and enhance our ability to create knowledge and opportunity for all. Together, we are committed to building an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the voices of our employees, students, partners, and the people and communities we serve.

TRIUMF’s student program typically hires ~40 students each term from across all disciplines who hang together socially and professionally during the term, and beyond. Our program offers young minds a chance to gather, learn, make new friends, and have fun doing so during their time at TRIUMF. We hold weekly ProD sessions for students which include different activities such as conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and active listening. Additionally, we hold weekly seminars about the different experiments at TRIUMF, and these talks specifically cater to students. Located on the UBC campus makes it easier for students to make friends, create memories, and explore Vancouver all while working at TRIUMF.

TRIUMF’s student program is more than just a place to work, its learning, memories, friendships, exploration, and development all clubbed into one.  

Come join us to see how we are working to unlock the mysteries of the universe and shape the future. Apply now and be part of our extraordinary journey.

Learn more about the amazing research and work we do at TRIUMF.

https://www.discoverourlab.triumf.ca

http://www.rarestdrug.com

Basic Function

The successful candidate will develop a Python-based software tool and web dashboard to support planning and evaluation of expected beam properties for experiments at TRIUMF’s ARIEL and ISAC facilities. Working within the existing High Level Application (HLA) framework, the student will integrate data from multiple sources to produce consistent, reproducible estimates of beam properties at experimental stations.

This project addresses the current reliance on manual, ad-hoc evaluation of expected beam properties, which does not scale with the increased beam delivery capacity enabled by ARIEL. The outcome will be a maintainable, automated solution that improves consistency, efficiency, and accessibility of beam property estimates for users across the facility.

Responsibilities

The successful applicant will:

  • Become familiar with the beam properties relevant to ARIEL and ISAC experiments (e.g., facility, isotope, intensity, energy, and contaminants).
  • Learn the operational constraints that affect beam delivery, including beamline routing options, accelerator limitations on ion mass and charge, and expected output energies.
  • Identify and evaluate existing data sources used to estimate beam properties.
  • Design and implement algorithms in Python to estimate expected beam properties at a specified experimental station.
  • Develop a reusable Python package that automates beam property evaluation in a consistent manner.
  • Implement a simple web-based dashboard using Flask to provide user access to the software.
  • Document the software through a short design note, including implementation details, instructions for future developers, and a user guide.


Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be curious, motivated, and interested in applying software development skills in a scientific research environment. The following qualifications are required or beneficial:

  • Experience programming in Python.
  • Basic understanding of software development concepts (e.g., version control, modular code, testing, or documentation).
  • Introductory knowledge of statistics or data analysis.
  • Willingness to learn new technical concepts related to accelerator physics and beam delivery.

The following would be considered assets, but are not required:

  • Experience with web application development (e.g., Flask or similar frameworks).
  • Familiarity with Git or other version control systems.
  • Experience working with scientific or technical data.
  • Prior coursework or exposure to physics beyond the introductory level.


Learning Outcomes

By the end of the work term, the student will have gained:

  • Hands-on experience developing scientific software within a collaborative research environment.
  • Practical experience using modern software development tools, including Git/GitLab, Python, Flask, and Docker.
  • An understanding of radioactive heavy-ion accelerator facilities and the factors that influence beam delivery to experimental stations.
  • Exposure to accelerator physics concepts such as charge-state distributions, stripper foils, and their impact on beam properties.
  • Experience integrating multiple data sources and applying statistical reasoning to estimate physical quantities.
  • Experience designing user-focused software, including translating complex technical information into an accessible web-based interface.
  • Technical documentation experience, including writing design notes and user guides for future developers and users.

Skills required:

Data Analysis, Git, Keenness to Learn, Physics, Python Software Development, Software Development, Statistics, Version Control, Web Development

TRIUMF, Canada's national laboratory for particle and nuclear physics, is situated on the vibrant south campus of the University of British Columbia, nestled within the beautiful Pacific Spirit Park in Vancouver, BC.

At TRIUMF, we value our employees and are committed to providing a competitive total rewards package. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer comprehensive benefits that promote the well-being and security of our staff. Our organization provides an excellent opportunity to grow your career in a high-profile national research facility, where you can make a difference.

If you are passionate about science, engineering and technology, driven to excel, and eager to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking organization, we encourage you to apply. Take the next step in your career journey with TRIUMF.


TRIUMF offers help with travel costs for students outside the Vancouver and surrounding area.

Applications must have the following documents uploaded:

  • A resume/CV
  • A covering letter that includes your interest in and your qualifications for the specific position
  • A copy of academic transcript (unofficial copies are accepted)


Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Applications closing date:

January 25, 2026

Period of Work (possible 4 month extension):

May 04, 2026-August 28, 2026

Salary is commensurate with academic progress and previous relevant work experience, and ranges from $ 2815 to $ 4238 per month including 4% vacation pay.

TRIUMF is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace, and we welcome applications from all qualified undergraduate students as defined below (unless stated otherwise above):

  • Canadian undergraduate students or Canadian Permanent Resident undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution in Canada (or outside Canada) who are studying in a vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.

  • Foreign full-time undergraduate students currently enrolled at a designated learning institution at the post-secondary level, and who are studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate that is at least six months in duration, and who have a valid Canadian study permit which allows for employment off-campus, and who have applied for a Social Insurance Number

  • Foreign undergraduate students enrolled in a recognized undergraduate program of study abroad who have accepted, or are in the process of accepting, an "Invitation to Apply" for a work permit under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program http://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec/apply-work-permit.html.


At TRIUMF, we’re passionate about accelerating discovery and innovation to improve lives and build a better world. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to excellence and enhance our ability to create knowledge and opportunity for all.

Together, we are committed to building an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the voices of our employees, students, partners, and the people and communities we serve.

Contact information:
Email: student@triumf.ca
Phone: 604.222.1047
Fax: 604.222.3791

4004 Wesbrook Mall
Vancouver, BC
V6T 2A3