Postdoctoral Fellow in proton conducting ceramic thin films for energy storage and conversion
Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI)
Publication date:
30 January 2025Workload:
100%Contract type:
Permanent position- Place of work:Villigen PSI
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 Thin Films and Interfaces Group we are looking for a
Your tasks
This project is part of a European collaboration between academic and industrial partners, aiming to develop a highly efficient and scalable electrochemical reactor for energy conversion and storage.
As part of this project, you will be responsible for the growth and characterization (including but not limited to composition, structure, and electrical properties) of proton conducting ceramic thin films. The films will be grown by pulsed laser deposition and subsequently integrated into a prototype steam electrolysis device through an international collaborative effort. You will utilize several in situ and ex situ characterization methods such as RHEED, XRD, AFM, EIS, XPS and RBS to understand the relationship between growth process parameters and the functional properties of the resultant thin films. You will employ the collected data to publish in peer reviewed articles.
You will be involved in the multidisciplinary research activities of the group, assisting both internal and external partners with research activities, take part in the supervision of students, and help with ensuring the operation of key instrumentation.
Your profile
Candidates are sought with a background in the natural sciences or engineering, alongside a passion for energy-related research themes. Candidates are expected to show excellent work ethics and to feel at home working as part of an interdisciplinary team. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Requirements for candidates:
- Doctoral degree in Physics, Chemistry, Engineering or Materials Sciences
- Solid background in solid-state physics and/or chemistry, preferably with an understanding of solid-state ionics, defect chemistry and impedance spectroscopy
- Strong motivation for materials science and discovery, for working autonomously and solving challenging problems, and a team-oriented attitude
- Excellent communication skills in written and spoken English (knowledge of German is a plus)
- Optional, desirable but not required: Hands-on experience with physical vapor deposition techniques, vacuum systems and/or pulsed laser deposition
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.
This is a fixed-term position. Your employment contract is limited to 2 years.
For further information, please contact Dr Nikita Shepelin, phone +41 56 310 45 25 or email E-Mail schreiben.
Please submit your application online by 28 February 2025 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) (for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (index no. 3702-00).
Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Serdal Varol, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland