PhD in Laser-Plasma Oxides for Functional Thin Films

PSI Laboratory for Energy Systems Analysis (LEA); Villigen; On-site; CHF 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Villigen, Switzerland, invites applications for a PhD Student in laser induced plasmas of functional oxides. The role is embedded in the Physical Properties of Materials Group and includes on-site experimental work, in situ characterization, and data-driven approaches to understanding oxide thin films.

The position is enrolled in ETH Zürich Doctoral program, with English proficiency required and German knowledge advantageous.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent in materials science, chemistry, physics or related discipline.
• Foundational knowledge on the physics/chemistry of laser induced plasmas.
• Understanding of physical vapor deposition and vacuum infrastructure; experience with vacuum chambers is advantageous.
• Good communicator and team player in interdisciplinary research.
• Proficiency in English; German knowledge is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Develop understanding of how pulsed laser deposition parameters translate into oxide film composition and functionality.
• Identify material compositions relevant to the technology.
• Be responsible for a pulsed laser deposition chamber with in situ characterization techniques.
• Develop strategies, including machine learning, to improve reproducibility of grown films during growth.
• Publish peer‑reviewed articles using collected data.

Skills

Foundational knowledge of laser plasms

Machine learning concepts

Vacuum systems knowledge

Education

Master’s degree or equivalent in materials science, chemistry, physics or a related discipline

Tools

Python

Job description

The Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Villigen, Switzerland, invites applications for a PhD Student in laser induced plasmas of functional oxides. The role is embedded in the Physical Properties of Materials Group and includes on-site experimental work, in situ characterization, and data-driven approaches to understanding oxide thin films.

The position is enrolled in ETH Zürich Doctoral program, with English proficiency required and German knowledge advantageous.