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 Laboratory of Atmospheric Chemistry, we are looking for a

PhD Student in Aerosol Chemistry

Your tasks

  • Perform ^14C and aerosol mass spectrometer analyses on filters collected in eastern Europe and Asia 
  • Contributions to developing new workflows for methanol extraction with the aerosol mass spectrometer 
  • Source apportionment of organics and elemental carbon for different regions 
  • Offline measurements both at PSI and University of Bern 
  • Publication in high impact journals 
  • Writing thesis for a PhD degree at ETH Zurich 
  • Support of other projects in the laboratory

Your profile

  • Master's degree in Atmospheric Science or a related field 
  • Laboratory experience advantageous 
  • Very good programming (e.g. Python) and data analysis skills 
  • Very good oral and written English skills 
  • Team player

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.

For further information, please contact Dr Kaspar Dällenbach, e-mail kaspar.daellenbach@psi.ch and Prof. Dr Andre Prevot, e-mail andre.prevot@psi.ch. 

Please submit your application online by 5 August 2026 for the position as a PhD Student (Index-Nr. 5503-28805).

Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Emily Kulowatz, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
Apply now