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.
The project, conducted in collaboration with Novartis AG, aims at the rational design of efficient and sustainable chemical processes for the production of active ingredients in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. You will develop flow and microfluidic reactors for simultaneous production and operando characterisation using advanced X-ray characterisation techniques at large-scale research facilities. You will investigate routes of catalyst stabilisation and degradation in liquid environments and the effect of experimental conditions on reaction efficiency, with the ultimate goal of developing sustainable processes for the production of active ingredients in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. While focusing on practical applications, the project also aims to achieve fundamental insight in catalytic mechanisms at the atomic scale.
For Syn Flow group we are looking for a
Your tasks
Design and utilise in situ/operando reactors, including microfluidic reactors, for multi-technique characterisation of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts in liquid phase.
Explore the phenomena of micelle formation, viscosity effects and ligation of metal complexes on the catalytic performance in catalytic production of active ingredients in pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries.
Establish structure-function relationships using laboratory and synchrotron-based time-resolved spectroscopies and by using theoretical simulations.
Develop automated flow and microfluidic setups for real-time reaction optimisation and continuous production.
Your profile
- Master’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field
- Ability to perform experimental and/or theoretical work, look for new solutions, work independently
- Willingness to work in the field of heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis
- Interest in spectroscopic techniques and the physical principles behind them
- Interest in scientific programming using Python
- Excellent communication skills and ability to integrate easily into interdisciplinary research team
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.
You will be enrolled at the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences ETH Zurich.
For further information, please contact Dr Aram Bugaev, mail aram.bugaev@psi.ch.
Please submit your application online by 1 May 2026 (including addresses of referees) for the position as a PhD Student (Index-Nr. 6417-27511).
Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Serdal Varol, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland