Postdoctoral Fellow in LGAD sensor development

30 April 2026
100%
Permanent position
Villigen PSI

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 Detector Science and characterization group we are looking for a

Your tasks

You will work on the SNSF project “Innovative Hybrid Pixelated LGAD imaging Sensors for Deep Water Window”

You will lead the simulation, optimization, and design of next-generation thin-entrance window and Low Gain Avalanche Diode LGAD pixel sensors

Your work will focus on tailoring these technologies specifically for the soft X-ray "deep water window" energy range. Beyond the design phase, you will actively participate in the characterization of the developed sensors and perform data analysis to understand their capabilities

You will collaborate with beamline scientists and participate in pilot experiments at synchrotrons to validate the performance of the pixelated sensors using the state-of-the-art X-ray detectors developed at PSI

As our group philosophy relies on strong teamwork, you will be able to get an insight into all aspects of detector development, from the design of the individual components of the detector to the final pilot experiments

Your profile

You have a PhD degree in physics, electronic engineering or a subject related to solid state detectors

You have experience with radiation detectors, a good knowledge of silicon sensor design would be a plus

Skills in Technology Computer Aided Design TCAD simulations are required, preferably Synopsys or Silvaco tools

You are highly motivated, can work independently and strive to contribute with new ideas

You like to collaborate, enjoy teamwork and can clearly communicate in good English with people from different backgrounds

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 2 years, with possibility of extension.

For further information, please contact Dr Jiaguo Zhang, mail E-Mail schreiben, phone +41 56 310 39 36.

Please submit your application online by 17 May 2026 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index-Nr. 6221-27885).

Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Mariusz Prus, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland

www.psi.ch