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 Central Infrastructures: Center for Operando Spectroscopy Studies Group at PSI and embedded within the National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) catalysis, we are looking for a

Postdoctoral Fellow in X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS)

Apply online now

Your tasks

  • Collaborate with NCCR catalysis members to plan, conduct and analyze synchrotron-based in the field of homogeneous, heterogeneous or electro(photo)-catalysis
  • Develop and pursue an independent research project in catalysis
  • Develop sample environments for X-ray absorption spectroscopy experiments
  • Participate in the development of data collection / analysis protocols and software for XAS/XRD at the Debye and SuperXAS beamlines

Your profile

  • You have a PhD degree in chemistry / physics / chemical engineering / material science or a related field
  • You have general knowledge of heterogeneous, homogeneous or electro-catalysis
  • Experience in planning, conducting and analyzing (large datasets) of synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction experiments
  • Proficiency in programming with Python is an asset

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.

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr Maarten Nachtegaal, phone +41 56 310 30 56.

Please submit your application online by 15 December 2024 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow in X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) (index no. 5004-00).

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