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.

Your tasks

The exchange of gases with liquid or solid cloud droplets has important, yet poorly quantified implications for the chemistry and lifetime of gases in the atmosphere and the formation of aerosol particles, which in turn influence cloud properties. The PhD project focuses on uptake on, chemistry in, and release from cloud particles of various biogenic and inorganic gases during convective updrafts. A wetted-wall flow reactor will be used to mimic gas-phase oxidation reactions, uptake and aqueous-phase reactions. A newly developed through reactor will be used to study off-gassing of compounds in the condensed phase during freezing. Modelling efforts (also in collaboration with Stockholm University) will allow for quantification and parametrization of processes. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled at ETH Zürich.

Your profile

You should have a Master or equivalent in environmental, chemical, or physical science or related fields. You should bring interest in experimental research, mass spectrometric measurements and chemical processes of the atmosphere. You should be motivated to work in an interdisciplinary and international team.

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. 

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