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.

For a project with international partners in the Fuel Cell Systems and Diagnostics Group we are looking for a

PhD Student

Small angle X-Ray scattering studies of the water distribution in catalyst layers of polymer electrolyte fuel cells

Your tasks

• Investigate X-Ray small angle scattering approaches to detect water in catalyst layers of polymer electrolyte fuel cells


• Adapt fuel cell X-Ray imaging set-ups for scattering measurements and perform campaigns at the synchrotron source


• Determine water distribution and structure in nano-porous materials provided by project partners


• Use results to define guidelines for the design of improved catalyst layers for high power polymer electrolyte fuel cells


• Publish results in well regarded journals

Your profile

You hold a Master degree in physics, material or engineering sciences and are acquainted with scattering or imaging methods. Furthermore, you have experience with experimental work and you like to adapt your skills to a new interdisciplinary working environment. In addition, a broad interest in porous media, energy, electrochemistry or hydrogen technology is of advantage as well as a very good command of the English language.

The experimental work will be at the Paul Scherrer Institute in Villigen, the PhD degree will be awarded by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETHZ).

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 Jens Eller, phone +41 56 310 23 96.

Please submit your application online (including addresses of referees) for the position as a PhD Student (index no. 5422-01).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Jeanine Gehrig, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland.