Introduction to Cryogenics for Research Infrastructures
Training Room 1, room 213a
Jülich Supercomputing Centre, building 16.3
This course takes place on-site at JSC. Online participation is not possible. The course will be held in English.
Course Content:
Cryogenics – the science of extremely low temperatures – serves as the invisible backbone of modern high-level research. Without the ability to cool systems down to near absolute zero, many of today’s scientific breakthroughs would be impossible. From enabling superconductivity in particle accelerators and fusion reactors to stabilising qubits in quantum computers, cryogenics is the "enabling technology" behind many large-scale research infrastructures.
This course explores the fundamental physics of cryogenics, demonstrates the practical skills required to operate 4K systems and outlines important safety guidelines. In practical hands-on exercises, participants will gain first experience in assembling and operating cryogenic systems.
- Basics of low-temperature physics and cryogenics (gases, liquefaction, phase diagrams)
- Turn-key cryostats and cryocoolers up to 4K: components, safe operation, daily checks
- Temperature sensors, basic measurements, and data logging
- Vacuum fundamentals: pumps, gauges, leaks, simple troubleshooting
- Safety rules, hazards (asphyxiation, cold burns), personal protection
- Hands-on: assembling a basic setup, first cooldown, recognising common failures
|
Content level |
In hours |
In % |
|---|---|---|
|
Beginner's content: |
12 h |
80 % |
|
Intermediate content: |
3 h |
20 % |
|
Advanced content: |
0 h |
0 % |
|
Community-targeted content: |
0 h |
0 % |
Prerequisites:
- Participants should have a basic technical background, such as vocational training as a physics/chemistry laboratory technician (Physiklaborant:in, Chemielaborant:in) or be early-stage engineering/physics students
- No prior experience in cryogenics required
- If you have them, please bring the specific requirements of your own project for the hands-on exercises
- Note-taking materials are recommended
Target Audience:
The course is aimed at vocational trainees, early-stage students and scientists who are new to cryogenic technologies for research in material science, radiation detection, cryogenic electronics, quantum computing, etc.
Language:
This course is given in English.
Duration:
3 half days
Dates:
29 June - 1 July 2026, 09:00-13:00 each day
Venue:
Jülich Supercomputing Centre, building 16.3, Training Room 1, room 213a
Number of Participants:
Minimum 5, maximum 20
Instructor:
David Rabanus (JSC)
JSC