Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) 
Villigen, Switzerland Offer Summary
The Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland seeks a Postdoctoral Fellow for the Component Structural Safety Group. This two-year fixed-term position focuses on Zinc Water Chemistry and NobleChem effects on light water reactor materials. Key responsibilities include designing experimental studies on stress corrosion cracking, corrosion, and hydrogen uptake in structural and fuel cladding materials. The role requires applying advanced metallographic, electrochemical, and surface analytical techniques to investigate degradation mechanisms. Candidates must hold a PhD in Materials Science or Metallurgy with solid expertise in corrosion, electrochemistry, and material characterization via microscopy. Practical experience with high-temperature water experiments is ideal. The fellow will also supervise students, publish findings, and collaborate internationally. Excellent English communication skills are essential, while German knowledge is an asset. Applications are due by January 4, 2027.
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Project Description
Postdoctoral Fellow in Zinc Water Chemistry and NobleChem Effects on the Degradation of Light Water Reactor Structural and Fuel Cladding Materials
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 Component Structural Safety Group we are looking for a
Your tasks
- Design, conduct and evaluate experimental studies on the effects of Zinc Water Chemistry ZWC and NobleChem on the degradation behaviour of light water reactor LWR structural and fuel cladding materials. Research topics include stress corrosion cracking initiation and propagation in structural materials; corrosion, oxidation and hydrogen uptake in cladding materials; quantitative assessment of environmental and material parameter effects; application of advanced metallographic, fractographic, electrochemical and surface analytical techniques to investigate degradation and mitigation mechanisms; and characterisation of oxide film composition, structure and zinc incorporation using state-of-the-art microscopy and spectroscopy methods
- Supervise student research projects and internships
- Disseminate research findings through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences
- Contribute to collaborative research activities and provide technical expertise across related projects
Your profile
- PhD degree in Materials Science or Metallurgy or in a closely related field
- Solid background in corrosion / electrochemistry and metallurgy
- Practical experience in material characterization by light and electron microscopy and ideally in experiments under high-temperature water conditions
- Excellent communication skills in English and a strong ability to work effectively in an international and multidisciplinary team are essential, knowledge of German would be considered 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.
The employment contract will be limited to 2 years, with the option of a 2 year extension.
For further information please contact Stefan Ritter, phone +41 56 310 29 83, email stefan.ritter@psi.ch.
Please submit your application online by 4 January 2027 (including addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index-Nr. 4603-30417).
Paul Scherrer Institute, People & Culture, Emily Kulowatz, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland