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.
To transform the current energy system into a sustainable one, new catalytic processes for the valorizing biomass are being developed in the Catalytic Process Engineering Group. To contribute to the further development and understanding of our processes, we are looking for a
Your tasks
- Conducting innovative research in biomass-related catalysis: developing new catalysts, safeguard materials, reaction systems, to convert biomass thermochemically into chemical energy carriers, platform chemicals or high-value chemicals
- Acquisition of third-party funded projects within the topics of biomass conversion, catalysis, biochemicals
- Performing physico-chemical analyses of catalysts and other solid samples (N2 adsorption, XRD, EM, TGA, XAS)
- Initiating collaborations with other groups inside and outside of PSI
- Publishing in scientific journals and presenting at international conferences and workshops
Your profile
- PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Technical Chemistry, Process Engineering or a related field
- Excellent writing skills and fluent English spoken skills
- Self-organized, focussed working attitude
- Proven experience with safely operating and troubleshooting lab test rigs under elevated pressure and temperature is mandatory
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 two years with the option of a two year extension.
For further information please contact Dr David Baudouin, e-mail david.baudouin@psi.ch.
Please submit your application online by 30 June 2026 including list of publications and addresses of referees for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index-Nr. 5101-28196).
Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Mariusz Prus, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland