PhD in High-Intensity Electron Sources for Accelerators

ETH Zurich; Schweiz; On-site; CHF 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

ETH Zürich in Switzerland invites applications for a Doctoral Position in High Intensity Electron Sources for Future Accelerators. The position, based at PSI Villigen with teaching duties at ETH Zurich, advances beam-shaping techniques for FCC and SwissFEL applications.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in physics or related fields and demonstrate strong interest in accelerator physics, beam dynamics, lasers, and numerical modelling. English proficiency is essential; German is a plus.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in physics or closely related field with strong interest in accelerator physics.
• Experience with beam dynamics, lasers/optics, or numerical modelling is advantageous.
• Independent, analytical mindset and collaboration across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Commission a new electron source test stand and show pulse-to-pulse modulation of bunch charge, beam size, and laser energy.
• Compare laser-shaping techniques via beam measurements and prototype photocathode operation; explore AI-based optimization.
• Study photocathode and laser performance, including semiconductor photocathode lifetimes at high bunch charges.
• Measure beam brightness gains from photocathode shaping and RF compression for SwissFEL upgrades.

Skills

Beam physics

Lasers/optics

Numerical modelling

Scientific programming

English proficiency

Education

Master’s degree in physics

Job description

ETH Zürich in Switzerland invites applications for a Doctoral Position in High Intensity Electron Sources for Future Accelerators. The position, based at PSI Villigen with teaching duties at ETH Zurich, advances beam-shaping techniques for FCC and SwissFEL applications.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in physics or related fields and demonstrate strong interest in accelerator physics, beam dynamics, lasers, and numerical modelling. English proficiency is essential; German is a plus.