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 Transport Phenomena in Electrochemistry group in the Laboratory for Electrochemistry LEC we are looking for a
Your tasks
Project scientist position in the field of small angle scattering characterization of low temperature fuel cells, focusing on:
- Characterization of the catalyst layer ionomer morphology (ex-situ) and liquid water therein (operando) by small angle X-ray and neutron scattering
- Planning, execution, analysis and interpretation of experiments at scattering instruments (lab-based, neutron and synchrotron facilities)
- Improvement of the data interpretation tools and operando setup as required
- Analysis and visualization of the scattering data
- Disseminating the results through presentations and publications in international conferences and journals
Your profile
- You hold a PhD degree in the fields of physics, chemistry, materials science, chemical, mechanical engineering or related
- Knowledge of the electrochemical processes in PEM fuel cells and function / properties of porous materials
- Experience in microstructural analysis and microscopy
- Experience in scattering or imaging techniques is a plus
- Proficient programming skills are a must
- Excellent communication skills including advanced writing abilities in English
- Able to integrate easily into an 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.
This is a fixed-term position. The employment contract will initially be limited to 1.5 years.
For further information, please contact Dr Juan Herranz, phone +41 56 310 55 62, e-mail juan.herranz@psi.ch.
Please submit your application online by 26 June 2026 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index-Nr. 5422-28332).
Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Mariusz Prus, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland