Scientist (Tenure Track)

Publication date:26 November 2025
Workload:100%
Contract type:Unlimited employment
Place of work:Villigen PSI

Job summary

Join the Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland's top research hub.

Tasks

Support beamline scientists with undulator-based light sources.
Design advanced variable-polarization undulators for upgrades.
Conduct simulations and magnetic measurements for devices.

Skills

PhD in Physics or Electrical Engineering is required.
Experience with light source facilities is essential.
Strong organizational and communication skills are needed.

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About the job

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 Insertion Devices Group within the Center for Photon Science, we are looking for a

Your tasks

Support beamline scientists in the operation and optimization of their undulator-based light sources at both SLS and SwissFEL, including advanced modes such as Echo-Enabled Harmonic Generation (EEHG)

Contribute to the design of short-period, advanced variable-polarization undulators for the upcoming SwissFEL and SLS beamline upgrades

Perform simulation studies of both the magnetic systems and photon output of current and future insertion devices

Perform magnetic measurements of insertion devices and take responsibility for the associated electronics and calibration

Your profile

PhD in Physics or Electrical Engineering

Substantial experience working at a user-oriented light source facility

Experience with advanced electromagnetic simulations involving technical superconductors (e.g., magnetization currents) is an advantage

Strong organizational and project management skills

Excellent communication skills in English; German is a plus

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 Tenure Track position. The employment contract will initially be limited to three years.

For further information, please contact Marco Calvi, phone +41 56 310 58 02.

Please submit your application online by 04.01.2026, including list of publications and addresses of referees for the position as Scientist (Tenure Track) (Index-Nr. 6319-24093).

Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Luca Simen, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland

www.psi.ch