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 2100 people.



The Swiss Light Source (SLS) is a third-generation synchrotron light source. With energy of 2.4 GeV, it provides photon beams of high brightness for research in materials science, biology and chemistry. An upgrade of the Swiss Light Source (SLS) is planned for 2021–2024 and includes the exchange of the existing storage ring by a new one providing about 40 times lower emittance in user operation mode. This reduction will be performed by replacing the 12 triple-bend achromats with 7-bend achromat structures. These are based on a massive amount of reduced size bending magnets (normal conducting, permanent magnets) with small apertures and longitudinal field gradients and the use of a high field superconducting super-bend.

For the Calculation and Analysis Group we are looking for a 

Magnet Engineer

with expertise in accelerator magnets

Your tasks

The work will be part of the design and the magnetic characterisations of the series magnets (permanent, normal conducting and superconducting) for the SLS-2:

• Magnetic design of permanent and normal conducting magnets for accelerator


• Development and calibration of magnetic measurement systems


• Follow up of the production of magnet components and development of testing procedures


• Magnetic measurements and analysis of the field quality of series magnets

Your profile

You hold a PhD degree in applied physics or in electrical engineering and a background in multiphysics simulations (e.g. COMSOL, OPERA, Ansys). Experience in magnetic measurement systems for accelerator magnets and in data acquisition systems are essential. Hands-on experience with the follow up of the production of magnet components is a clear asset. As a team-oriented and communicative person you enjoy working in an interdisciplinary group. You act independently, show initiative and you are practice-oriented. Good knowledge of English is mandatory; knowledge of German is a plus.

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.



For further information please contact Dr Stephane Sanfilippo, phone +41 56 310 41 11.

Please submit your application online (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Magnet Engineer (index no. 8431-01).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Nicole Fricker, Forschungsstrasse 111, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland