Job Overview
The Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) is Switzerland's largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences. It designs, builds and operates large‑scale research infrastructures, conducting cutting‑edge research in future technologies, energy, climate, health innovation, and fundamental science. The Center for Photon Science (CPS) operates the Swiss Light Source (SLS), Swiss Free Electron Laser (SwissFEL), advanced cleanroom facilities (PICO), and the ETH‑PSI Quantum Computing Hub. CPS supports users from academia and industry and drives research and technology development. This role will lead CPS and report directly to the PSI director, influencing national and international research strategies.
Responsibilities
* Provide clear vision and strong leadership for CPS as one of the globally leading centers for photon science and related technologies
* Develop and implement strategic plans for the CPS national infrastructures, science and technology programs, and platforms in accordance with the overall PSI and ETH Domain strategy, national priorities, and international engagements
* Liaise with key user groups from academia and industry, as well as with leaders of other photon science facilities and nanotechnology and quantum computing centers. Strengthen links with Swiss universities
* Enable leading photon, nano and quantum technology development. Represent the field and PSI in national and international collaborations and initiatives
* Develop fundamental, mission‑driven and technology‑driven research jointly with other PSI centers, institutions of the ETH Domain, as well as national and international partners
* Further encourage the use of the CPS facilities and platforms by industry. Promote knowledge transfer through the development and exploitation of intellectual property
* Lead the acquisition of third‑party funding for research and facilities
* Lead a personal research program, including some engagement in teaching
Qualifications
* Outstanding international recognition as scientist and proven track record of scientific achievements in a field relevant for CPS
* Extensive experience as user or developer of large‑scale facilities or technology platforms, and the ability to initiate and lead national and international collaborations and networks
* Ability to initiate and co‑develop scientific and technology programs for CPS and PSI. Experience and proven ability in the leadership of large teams and technical projects
* Proven record of successful acquisition of external funding, for example for academic research, instrumentation, or projects with industry
* Educational experience (student supervision, teaching)
* Excellent leadership and communication skills, and motivation to continuously develop those
Benefits
Our institute is part of the ETH Domain, including ETH Zurich and EPFL, and national laboratories PSI, Empa, WSL, and Eawag. We value interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration and offer an internationally competitive salary and pension. We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds.
Further information on the position and CPS can be obtained from the director, Prof. Dr. Christian Rüegg, christian.rueegg@psi.ch. Please submit your application online by 11 May 2026 (including a cover letter, CV with list of projects and publications, research and technology vision, and contact details of references) (Index‑Nr. 6000‑00).
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