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

X-Ray imaging of water in porous structures of polymer electrolyte fuel cells

Your tasks

• Advance development of X-Ray tomographic imaging water in the microporous layers in polymer electrolyte fuel cells


• Develop image evaluation pipeline for determination in sub-resolution pores


• Determine water distribution in materials provided by project partners


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


• Publish results in well regarded journals

Your profile

You hold a Master degree in physics, engineering or material sciences and are acquainted with electrochemistry and/or X-Ray image evaluation 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 energy and/or hydrogen technology is of advantage as well.

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 Felix Büchi, phone +41 56 310 24 11.

Please submit your application online (including addresses of referees) for the position as a PhD Student (index no. 5422-02).

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