Postdoctoral Fellow in crystal growth and characterization of quantum spin ice materials

  • Publication date:

    21 June 2024
  • Workload:

    100%
  • Contract type:

    Unlimited employment
  • Place of work:

    Villigen

Postdoctoral Fellow in crystal growth and characterization of quantum spin ice materials


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 2200 people.

For the Solid State Structures group, Laboratory for Neutron Scattering and Imaging we are looking for a

Your tasks

  • Synthesize samples of bulk materials (rare-earth pyrochlore oxides)
  • Setup and develop new synthesis techniques
  • Work as needed for the project at both the Solid State Chemistry group at PSI and the Materials Discovery Laboratory at ETHZ
  • Chemical, structural and magnetic characterizations of materials
  • Participate in neutron scattering experiments
  • Develop interpretations in collaboration with the project team
  • Presentation of research outcomes in publications and at workshops or conferences

Your profile

  • PhD degree in chemistry or physics
  • High level of skills in sample preparation and crystal growth
  • Ability to characterize samples using diffraction methods and physical properties measurements
  • Excellent knowledge of solid-state chemistry, crystallography
  • Knowledge in magnetism is an asset
  • Strong written and oral communication skills in English
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with both theoretical and experimental partners

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.

Your employment contract is limited to 2 years.

For further information, please contact Dr Romain Sibille, phone +41 56 310 35 80.

Please submit your application online by 18 July 2024 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (index no. 3301-01).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Noémi Lushaj, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland