Presentation
Irfu has long contributed to numerous projects at CERN, marking more than five decades of collaboration through its dedicated branch (DEDIP/ANTENNE) located at the heart of the CERN facilities in Geneva. This unique and innovative entity has the crucial mission of strengthening Irfu’s participation in CERN’s physics experiments by covering the critical phases of research and development, design, installation, and ongoing maintenance. Its presence serves as a vital support center for Irfu staff undertaking short- or long-term assignments at CERN, ensuring seamless integration into experimental activities as well as effective coordination with CERN’s services, particularly those related to security, finance, and transportation.
The backbone of this operational structure consists of a dedicated team of five permanent Irfu employees who are permanently stationed at the satellite office on the CERN campus. Their roles range from logistical support and procurement assistance to contributions to research and development, as well as hands-on participation in the production and installation of experiments. Based on-site, they ensure a rapid response to emerging needs, working in synergy with the efficient services provided by CERN, thereby optimizing the use of time and avoiding the need for extended missions.
The branch’s contributions cover a wide range of projects, including ALICE (MFT and Muon arm), ATLAS (NSW, ITK, Muon), GBar, T2K-ND280 (ERAM), Hyper-Kamiokande (assembly and testing of readout electronics), LHCb Upgrade II (Upstream Pixel), and CMS (BCAL laser monitoring and VFE electronics). Participation in these projects underscores Irfu’s ongoing commitment to cutting-edge scientific projects.
Technical Resources
Located in Building 182 on the Meyrin campus at CERN, the branch office has a well-equipped 381m² space, housing essential facilities such as offices, a secretariat, a mechanical workshop, an electronics laboratory, and a detector testing workshop. In addition, access to specialized areas such as a clean room and a dedicated meeting/conference room enhances the branch’s operational versatility.
To support physicists involved in experiments, a fleet of nine vehicles is available to Irfu staff, facilitating mobility throughout CERN’s vast premises and aiding in the transport of equipment, thereby enhancing their participation in CERN experiments where Irfu’s contributions are crucial.
Contact
Charlotte RICCIO, Branch Head, 41 75 411 22 00
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