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. 

The Laboratory for Reactor Physics and Thermal-hydraulics (LRT) focuses on computational and experimental research with a focus on the safety of nuclear reactors, with an emphasis on Light Water Reactors (LWRs) and in particular the Swiss nuclear power plants. Computation fluid dynamics (CFD) plays a crucial role in safety assessment, providing higher fidelity solutions when needed as a complement to traditional thermal-hydraulics assessments. In the context of ongoing research to bridge and/or combine these technologies, the System Behaviour group are looking for a

Scientist: Multi-scale CFD and Thermal-hydraulics Analysis and Methods Development

Apply online now

Your tasks

  • Conduct research and development activities in the field of nuclear systems behaviour, specializing in best-estimate multi-scale thermal-hydraulics computational methodologies for LWR safety analyses 
  • Develop and enhance CFD codes and models, with emphasis on coarse mesh CFD techniques and multi-scale integration
  • Develop system thermal-hydraulics methodologies with a focus of coupled multi-scale simulation frameworks 
  • Provide scientific expertise for reactor safety analyses, focusing on Pressurized Water Reactor system thermal-hydraulics, including development and maintenance of plant models 
  • Present research results in the form of peer-reviewed publications, conference participations and preparation of technical reports 
  • Contribute to education and teaching activities including supervision of master’s and PhD students

Your profile

  • PhD in Nuclear or Mechanical Engineering, Physics and/or Applied Mathematics 
  • Good working knowledge of single and two-phase fluid dynamics and heat transfer 
  • Demonstrated expertise in CFD code development and application, in particular OpenFOAM, in the area of nuclear reactor safety analysis 
  • Experience with nuclear systems and/or subchannel analysis codes, in particular TRACE 
  • Solid background in computational modelling, including numerical methods development and high-performance computing
  • Proven experience in scientific software development. Proficiency in C++, FORTRAN and scripting languages (e.g. Python) 
  • Experience using high performance computing clusters for large scale simulations 
  • Experience using CAD and solid modelling software 
  • Experience in supervision and mentoring of students 
  • Fluent spoken and written English. Proficiency in German is a plus

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.

This is a Tenure Track position. The employment contract will initially be limited to 3 years.

For further information, please contact Dr. Ivor Clifford, phone +41 56 310 34 68.

Please submit your application online for the position as a Scientist: Multi-scale CFD and Thermal-hydraulics Analysis and Methods Development (index no. 4103-24329).

Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Adina Keller, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland