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 matter and materials, energy and environment and human health. 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 many years the Laboratory for Waste Management has conducted multi-disciplinary research on radionuclide retention and transport related to geological disposal of radioactive wastes, using a unique combination of experimental infrastructure and modelling capabilities. LES benefits strongly from on-site proximity to world-leading materials characterization facilities including the SLS synchrotron and SINQ neutron source, and the Hot Laboratory facility which is fully equipped for research utilizing radioisotopes. Such studies have strong synergies with the field of environmental engineering, circular economy including carbon capture and sequestration, and long- term performance of natural and engineered cementitious and clay-based systems. The appointee will work closely with senior colleagues specialised in both experimental and modelling aspects of radionuclides retention and transport in the context of radioactive waste disposal. They will collaborate with European and global partners in the EURAD-II consortium (https://www.ejp-eurad.eu/), to conduct a world-class research program in characterising and describing diffusion mechanism of radionuclide in argillaceous rocks under realistic environmental conditions. 

The group for diffusion processes is looking for a

Postdoctoral Fellow

Apply online now

Your tasks

  • Design and implementation of an experimental investigation addressing the effects of temperature (temperature variation, temperature gradients) on mass transfer processes of radiotracers in argillaceous rocks and clay minerals
  • Analysis of experimental measurements and model-based interpretation of the results. Application of the derived transport parameters to the repository safety
  • Publishing the results in peer reviewed research papers and presentations to showcase the work conducted

Your profile

We are looking for an expert laboratory-focused researcher, with skills and experience in tracer diffusion studies in clay systems. Experience of working in radiochemical laboratories is highly desirable, but researchers with a broader experience base and who are interested to further build skills in this area are also welcomed. The candidate should have a good understanding of transport and sorption phenomena in porous media and (geo)chemical thermodynamics. The successful candidate will have a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Natural Sciences / Radiochemistry / Chemical Engineering / Materials Science / Geochemistry / Geology or a closely related field. Excellent knowledge of English is essential and ability to communicate in German is also an advantage.

We offer

Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from 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. 

The employment contract is initially limited to 2 years.

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Sergey Churakov, phone +41 56 310 41 13 or Dr. Yaana Bruneel, +41 56 310 42 57.

Please submit your application online (including list of publications and addresses of referees) by 30 April 2025 for the position as a postdoctoral researcher (index no. 4404-00).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Serdal Varol, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland