Experimental Physicist 80 - 100% (f/m/d)

ABB; Baden; Hybrid; CHF 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

ABB’s Power Device Physics Team in Switzerland seeks a researcher to contribute to technology, software, product, and system development. You will identify innovative solutions and collaborate within an R&D team, leading experimental work and advancing multi-physics investigations in thermodynamics and related domains.

The role requires a PhD with hands-on lab experience, project leadership, and strong English communication.

Qualifications

• PhD required in Physics or Mechanical Engineering.
• Background in Heat and Mass transfer and Applied Thermodynamics; electromagnetism a plus.
• Experience in Project Management is essential.
• Hands-on laboratory experience and ability to design, build, and test prototypes.
• Experience with multi-physics simulations (COMSOL, CFD).
• Strong written and spoken English; collaborative and relation-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct applied research in electrical power-device physics focusing on thermodynamics and thermal management.
• Lead research projects supporting energy transformation through innovative power technologies.
• Plan, set up, and execute scientific experiments.
• Drive R&D activities, publish findings and generate IP.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, universities, and ABB divisions.

Skills

Multi-physics simulations

Project management

English communication

Independent initiative

Education

PhD in Physics or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

COMSOL

CFD

Job description

At ABB, we help industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person here makes that happen. You'll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.

This position reports to:

Research Team Manager - Power Device Physics

Your Role And Responsibilities

In this role, you will have the opportunity to contribute to ABB's success with technology, software, product, and system development. Each day, you will identify and implement innovative solutions to relevant problems. You will also showcase your expertise by providing ideas and by being able to work both independently and as a part of a Research & Development (R&D) team.

The work model for the role is hybrid.

• Conducting applied research in the area of electrical power-device physics with a primary focus on Applied Thermodynamics and Thermal management; and contribute to related multi-physics domains such as Electromagnetics and Fluid Dynamics
• Contributing to and lead research projects supporting the ongoing energy transformation through innovative electrical power technologies and multi-physics solutions
• Planning, setting up, and executing scientific experiments
• Driving research activities, generating intellectual property, and writing scientific publications
• Closely working with scientists and engineers within the team, driving collaborations within the research center, with universities, and global ABB divisions.

Qualifications For The Role

• PhD in Physics or Mechanical Engineering
• Background in the areas of Heat and Mass transfer, and Applied Thermodynamics. Knowledge of electromagnetism is a plus (please submit a list of publications if available).
• Previous experience in Project Management is essential for this role
• Hands‑on experience in a scientific or industrial laboratory, a willingness to work independently and take initiatives in designing, building, and testing prototypes
• Experience in multi-physics simulations, e.g., COMSOL, CFD
• A collaborative, solution-focused approach with good ability to build and maintain work relationships
• Strong communication and presentation skills in English (both written and spoken)

More About Us

The Power Device Physics Team at the ABB research center in Switzerland conducts interdisciplinary research focusing on multi-physical phenomena related to the broad portfolio of ABB's devices and systems, including switchgear and power electronics.

The team consists of enthusiastic scientists and engineers whose activities span from deepening the knowledge of physical phenomena such as dielectric breakdowns in gases/solids/vacuum, or thermal management with novel cooling concepts, to solving questions directly related to ABB's product portfolio. Our expertise and solutions are used to enable and support the development of next-generation products.

This unique opportunity allows you to carry out research in an evolving field and to contribute with your expertise to ABB's success by reinforcing our team. If you are passionate about science and technology and want to work in an inspiring environment where your skills and ideas become part of solutions for a sustainable future, then

Building a cleaner, smarter future takes all kinds of minds: the curious, the courageous, and the creative. That's why we welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences.

Ready to make an impact?

The recruitment process is actively managed by Pedro Labian, Talent Acquisition Partner at ABB Switzerland.