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.

For a joint PSI/ETHZ project to be conducted in collaboration with the European Space Agency and aimed at research on heat pipe cooled nuclear reactors for space propulsion, we are looking for a

Postdoctoral Fellows in Modelling and Experiments for Nuclear Electric Propulsion Systems

Apply online now

Your tasks

We are offering the following 2 postdoctoral fellowship topics: 
  • Characterization of advanced neutron transport methods for simulations of HALEU fuel in high temperature heat pipe environments 
  • Experimental set-up of filling and purification loop for evaluations of effects from heat pipe structures on flow and heat transfer behaviour

Your profile

  • PhD degree in nuclear, mechanical and/or aerospace engineering or physics 
  • Strong background in neutron transport methods and/or experimental studies on multi-phase flow and heat transfer 
  • Experience and/or high interest in nuclear reactors and space propulsion technology 
  • Proficiency in data processing and programming skills (C/C++) 
  • Fluent in spoken English, good writing skills in English

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.

Your employment contract is limited to 2 years.


For further information please contact Hakim Ferroukhi, phone +41 56 310 40 62.


Please submit your application online by 30 April 2025 (including addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (index no. 4102-03).


As this is a joint project between PSI and ETHZ, please be informed that your application will be shared with ETHZ members of the selection committee as well as the ETHZ.


Human Resources Management, Serdal Varol, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland