Postdoctoral Fellows - Modelling and Experiments for Nuclear Electric Propulsion Systems

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 a joint PSI/ETHZ project to be conducted in collaboration with the European Space Agency and aimed at research on heat pipe cooled nuclear reactors for space propulsion, we are looking for a

• Characterization of advanced neutron transport methods for simulations of HALEU fuel in high temperature heat pipe environments 
• Experimental set-up of filling and purification loop for evaluations of effects from heat pipe structures on flow and heat transfer behaviour

• PhD in nuclear, mechanical and/or aerospace engineering or physics 
• Strong background in neutron transport methods and/or experimental studies on multi-phase flow and heat transfer 
• Experience and/or high interest in nuclear reactors and space propulsion technology 
• Proficiency in data processing and programming skills (C/C++) 
• Fluent in spoken English, good writing skills in English