The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore, about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether, PSI employs 2300 people.
For the group of Spectroscopy of Quantum Materials working at the Swiss Light Source SLS synchrotron radiation facility we are looking for a
Your tasks
The wide bandgap of nitrides enables a broad range of high-power and high-frequency applications, spanning from 5G telecom to advanced optoelectronic and, recently, quantum devices. The central goal of this project is to explore the fundamentals of the electronic structure of nitride systems — including their band structure, Fermi surface, electron–electron and electron–phonon interactions, and interfacial band offsets — using soft X-ray angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy ARPES. These insights will pave the way for further advances in the performance and functionality of nitride-based devices. The experiments will be conducted at the Advanced Resonant Spectroscopies ADRESS beamline of the Swiss Light Source, the world-leading soft-X-ray ARPES facility with its primary focus on the interface and heterostructure systems, as well as at other synchrotron facilities worldwide. You will also participate in time-resolved ARPES research at the European XFEL. Your work will involve computational modelling of the electronic structure of nitride systems. You will be embedded in a vibrant scientific community at PSI, exploring solid-state systems through a variety of complementary techniques such as ultraviolet ARPES, muon spectroscopy, X-ray and neutron scattering. The project offers extensive collaboration opportunities, both within PSI and with external users of PSI's research facilities, as well as close interactions with theoretical groups during the data analysis and interpretation.
Your profile
- You have completed a PhD degree in solid state physics or materials science
- You have an excellent knowledge in fundamental solid state physics, and are familiar with photoelectron spectroscopy or related experimental techniques
- Experience in physics of nitrides and electronic-structure simulations will be an advantage
- You are interested in operating advanced synchrotron radiation instrumentation, and enjoy working within a motivated scientific team as well as with external scientists
- Excellent skills of communication in English are essential in the international environment of PSI
We offer
Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure.
Your employment contract is limited to 2 years with possibility to extend for 1 additional year.
For further information, please contact Dr Strocov Vladimir, phone +41 56 310 53 11, email vladimir.strocov@psi.ch.
Please submit your application online by 31 March 2026 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index-Nr. 6516-25663).
Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Serdal Varol, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland