LOCATION
Canberra Semiconductor N.V., Olen, Belgium

DATES
6-9 October 2026


LANGUAGE
The working language will be English
 

OBJECTIVES
The objective of the Technical Training is to equip participants with the technical foundation and practical skills necessary for repairing and maintaining Mirion (Canberra) equipment, specifically through hands-on exercises with HPGe germanium gamma detectors.

AGENDA

1. Detector system theory:

• Fundamentals of electromagnetic radiation;
• What is a HPGe semi-conductor detector and how does it work;
• CTBTO specific preamplifier, why and what’s different;
• Basic functions (gain, offset, pole zero, shaping time).

   2. Genie2k basic operation:

• Setup of the hardware;
• Calibrations.

   3. Hands-on training:

• Safe handling of detector (unpacking, packing, installing);
• Manipulating the electronics (connecting, high voltage, etc.);
• Detector initial setup and calibration;
• Extensive hands-on training with available hardware from individual items up to full working gamma spectroscopy chains, fully tuned and calibrated in energy, shape and efficiency;
• Detector cooling system operation and routine maintenance;
• Thermal cycling and oscilloscope exercise;
• Trouble-shooting detector, MCA and cooling system including preamplifier replacement;
• Improving detector resolution, including earth loops and how to avoid/cure them.

Training program should start with generic presentation of an overview on Mirion (Canberra), basics on detectors and proper introduction on HPGe Germanium detectors principles.

For each hands-on session the instructor should prepare a detailed plan on topics to be developed. It is expected that a significant number of mock and live exercises will be used during hands-on demonstrations.

PARTICIPANT PROFILE
Invited States Signatories should nominate participant(s) who are station operators involved in the operation and maintenance of the following stations: RN02, RN03, RN14, RN16, RN17, RN23, RN24, RN26, RN27-RN32, RN45, RN33, 
RN39, RN40, RN43, RN46, RN47, RN50, RN52, RN66

The training program is open only for Station Operators from host countries or/and operating countries. Applications from other stations using Canberra detector equipment may be considered based on available spaces.

In an effort to ensure that relevant technical training is provided to the appropriate person, please nominate individuals that are directly related to your IMS facility.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Nominations together with the registration forms should be submitted only through established official channels (the Permanent Missions to the Preparatory Commission for the CTBTO or Ministries of Foreign Affairs) to the PTS point of contact above, not later than 28 June 2026.

However, pending the official nomination, the participants may email the registration upon its approval by a director of the institution or firm, to allow timely travel and accommodation arrangements by the PTS.

Please use the following registration form: Registration Form_CANBERRA_2026.doc

FINANCIAL INFORMATION
In accordance with the Staff regulations and rules and Administrative Directives, the PTS will provide selected funded participants the following:

• A round-trip ticket to Olen on the most direct and economic route; 
• Funded participants are not allowed to purchase their own tickets unless, under exceptional circumstances, they are authorized to do so in advance, and only if this proves to be the most cost-effective option for the PTS;
• The PTS will book a hotel and cover the costs for the accommodation. Training participants will receive relevant portion of the Daily Subsistence Allowance (per-diem) via bank transfer upon arrival to the first day of the training; and
• Health and accident insurance will be provided for the duration of the training, including travel days.

Requirement: Scanned passport copies.

OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION

Visas
Participants should apply for visas, if needed, at the corresponding consular office upon receipt of an Acceptance Note Verbale from the PTS, in order to ensure timely processing.

Nominations arriving late may risk that the time required to obtain visas for the host country can no longer be met. In this context, the Secretariat wishes to advise that the host country requests a 5-week deadline for the submission of Schengen visa requests to the respective Mission.