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 2200 people. 

Your tasks

• Investigate deposits on fuel cladding surfaces (so-called CRUD) in respect to structure and phase composition using a shielded Focused Ion Beam (FIB) instrument in PSI’s hot laboratory 
• Characterize the atomic structure of the interface between a surface coating and fuel cladding by high-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) 
• Apply further experimental methods of interest, in cooperation with PSI hotlab – metallography, EPMA, FIB-based EBSD 
• Cooperate with our industry partners and colleagues from the modelling area 
• Supervise students 
• Publish your results in renowned scientific journals and report at international conferences

Your profile

• PhD degree in Materials Science, Physics or Chemistry 
• Hands-on experience supported by solid physical understanding of a TEM as a tool and a prior experience on FIB-SEM for 2D/3D analyses are required 
• Experience with handling radioactive materials is a big plus 
• Good knowledge of English, knowledge of German is an advantage 
• First experience in project management

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. 

www.psi.ch