Fully Funded PhD and Postdoc Positions at Paul Scherrer Institute

Summary:

To enhance our efforts in hydrothermal biomass conversion, we seek a Postdoctoral Fellow to focus on Catalytic Hydrothermal Gasification (CHG) for renewable hydrogen production. This role involves conducting research on selective hydrogen production through CHG within the Horizon Europe project “Bioctane,” in collaboration with international academic and industrial partners. Responsibilities include designing, preparing, and characterizing various catalysts for (near) supercritical water gasification of organic residues, with a focus on hydrogen selectivity. Utilizing state-of-the-art analyses such as XRD, physi-/chemisorption, SEM, and TEM will be essential. Additionally, the role involves operating a high-pressure, high-temperature test rig to assess catalyst performance, collaborating closely with another postdoc on the project, publishing in leading international scientific journals, and providing supervision to master’s students, doctoral students, and trainees within the team.

Requirements:

Candidates should hold a PhD degree in heterogeneous catalysis or chemical engineering, with a strong background in catalyst development and testing, preferably with expertise in porous materials (characterization and testing). The ideal candidate is innovative, resourceful, and autonomous, with excellent problem-solving skills. They should be highly motivated and skilled in experimental work, possessing outstanding interpersonal and organizational abilities. Proficiency in English is essential, while proficiency in German would be advantageous.

Summary:

The Membranes and Electrochemical Cells Group is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to investigate the effects of ionomer contamination in water electrolyzers. This role involves studying the impact of cationic contaminants in proton exchange membranes used in water electrolysis cells, with collaboration from industry partners. Tasks include understanding the effects of specific cations on membrane properties, characterizing single-cell performance and durability, devising and implementing methods for decontamination, supervising undergraduate students in research projects, and disseminating results through publications in leading scientific journals and presentations at international conferences.

Requirements:

Candidates should hold a PhD degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science, with a focus on ion exchange membranes or membrane-based electrochemical cells. A solid background in electrochemistry is essential, along with experience in supervising student projects. Excellent communication skills and proficiency in English, both written and spoken, are required for effective collaboration and dissemination of research findings.

Summary:

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow in Nuclear Materials Science and Engineering to investigate irradiation-induced effects on materials intended for use in various facilities, including spallation neutron sources, accelerator-driven systems (ADS), and next-generation nuclear energy devices. The role involves conducting mechanical testing to assess changes in the mechanical properties of materials, such as Fe-, Al-, Ti-, Ni-, and W-based alloys, after irradiation in the targets of the Swiss Spallation Neutron Source. Utilizing advanced microstructural analytical techniques, particularly atom probe tomography (APT), you will analyze the microstructure of these irradiated materials.

Requirements:

Applicants should possess a PhD degree in materials science and engineering, with a strong understanding of radiation effects in materials. Proficiency in using various microstructural analytical tools, particularly APT, is essential. Experience or knowledge of mechanical testing of structural materials is preferred. The ideal candidate is friendly, open-minded, creative, and highly motivated to contribute to research in nuclear materials science and engineering.