Postdoctoral Fellow in Soft Matter Physics / Materials Science
Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Soft Matter Physics / Materials Science with the Soft Matter Group, Laboratory of Neutron Scattering and Imaging (LNS) at SINQ. This position focuses on developing microfluidics and multimodal characterization to study soft matter under extreme flow conditions.
Overview
Location: Villigen PSI, Switzerland. Employment type: 3-year contract. Start date is to be agreed. PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences in Switzerland, performing fundamental and applied research across topics such as future technologies, energy, climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. About one quarter of staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices; PSI employs around 2300 people.
Your tasks
* Develop and implement microfluidics for soft matter and scattering measurements
* Analyze molecular structures in real-time using techniques such as small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and flow-induced polarized-light imaging (birefringence)
* Develop a novel experimental and simulation framework to explain, model, and control macromolecular structuring under extreme flow conditions
* Contribute to a multimodal, multiscale model linking flow conditions to molecular structures and rheological properties
* Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences
* Support the broader development of novel experimental strategies at SINQ
Your profile
* PhD in physics, physical chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline
* Advanced knowledge of rheology, fluid dynamics, and microfluidics to design and execute experiments simulating real-world conditions
* Demonstrated interest in soft matter physics, rheology, or flow-based characterization techniques
* Practical experience with neutron or X-ray scattering is an advantage
* Willingness to travel and participate in international beamtime campaigns
* Strong English communication skills (spoken and written)
* Experience with data integration and analysis to connect results from different methods (rheology, birefringence, scattering) into a single model
* Independent, solution-oriented working style and interest in experimental research
* Strong programming skills, particularly in Python
We offer
PSI supports interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will receive systematic on-the-job training, personal development opportunities, and a strong vocational training culture. The institute offers modern employment conditions and on-site infrastructure to support work-life balance. The employment contract is limited to 3 years.
Application and contact
For further information, please contact Dr. Viviane Lutz Bueno at viviane.lutz-bueno@psi.ch or +41 56 310 29 97.
Please submit your online application by 30. September 2025 (including a cover letter and addresses of 3 referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index-Nr. 3303-02).
Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Pascale Bärtschi, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
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