PhD Student in Real-Space Quantum Geometry

PSI; Villigen; On-site; CHF 48,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is seeking a PhD Student in Real-Space Quantum Geometry for the Laboratory for Multiscale Materials Experiments. You will grow and pattern magnetic thin films, perform micromagnetic simulations, and analyze data from advanced imaging and transport experiments.

Be part of a collaborative team, present findings at international conferences, and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Physics, Material Science or Electronics.
• Strong interest in solid-state physics and experimental research.
• Good written and spoken English.
• Experience with material growth, device fabrication in cleanrooms, magnetic imaging and micromagnetic simulations welcome.

Responsibilities

• Grow and pattern magnetic thin films by nanolithography techniques.
• Perform micromagnetic simulations.
• Investigate patterned films by electron and X-ray imaging techniques and electronic transport.
• Collect and analyze data, present at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
• Support the research team and collaborate during beamtimes at large-scale facilities.
• Pursue your PhD at PSI with enrollment at ETH Zurich.

Skills

Solid-state physics

Experimental research

Python

Team player

English

Education

Master’s degree in Physics, Material Science or Electronics

Job description

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.

PhD Student in Real-Space Quantum Geometry

For the Laboratory for Multiscale Materials Experiments we are looking for a PhD Student in Real-Space Quantum Geometry.

• Grow and pattern magnetic thin films by nanolithography techniques
• Perform micromagnetic simulations
• Investigate patterned films by electron and X-ray imaging techniques as well as electronic transport
• Collect and analyze data, present your research at international conferences, and publish your results in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Support the research team and collaborate with your colleagues, including during beamtimes at large-scale facilities
• Pursue your PhD at PSI with enrollment at ETH Zurich

Your profile

• Master’s degree in Physics, Material Science or Electronics
• Strong interest in solid-state physics, experimental research, and development of new methods and instrumentation
• Good written and spoken English skills
• Experience with material growth, device fabrication in cleanrooms, magnetic imaging techniques, micromagnetic simulations and Python is welcome but not essential
• Highly motivated, curious, eager to learn, self-driven and a team player

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.

For further information, please contact Dr Giacomo Sala, email [e-mail] , phone [phone].

Application deadline: 15 November 2026.

Position (Index-Nr. 3704-30351).