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 matter and materials, energy and environment and human health. 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 many years the Laboratory for Waste Management (LES) has conducted multi-disciplinary research on the fundamental science of cementitious materials, both for specific applications related to geological disposal of radioactive wastes, and also in the broader context of sustainable construction, using a unique combination of experimental infrastructure and modelling capabilities. LES benefits strongly from on-site proximity to world-leading materials characterization facilities including the SLS synchrotron and SINQ neutron source, and the HotLab facility which is fully equipped for research utilizing radioisotopes, as well as other laboratory and materials characterisation facilities. Our research has strong synergies with the field of environmental engineering, circular economy including carbon capture and sequestration, and long-term performance of natural and engineered cementitious and clay-based systems. 

The advertised position is within the recently announced Swiss National Science Foundation Advanced Grant project “ICONIC” (Identifying and Controlling Interfaces in Concrete”, https://data.snf.ch/grants/grant/225827), which is led by Prof. John Provis. The appointee will work closely with Prof. Provis and other members of the research team that he leads, specialised in both experimental and modelling aspects of the materials science of cements and related materials. The central focus of the work of the appointee will be in examining the pore network structure of cements, and the moisture transport taking place within these pores. They will also investigate the fundamental science of microstructure and adhesion at the cement paste-aggregate interface.

We are looking for a

PhD Student

Apply online now

Your tasks

  • You will plan and conduct an experimental research program to assess cements at the nano and microscale: pore networks, interfacial microstructures, and moisture transport in cementitious materials. This will be focused on understanding cements to improve durability and sustainability. 
  • You will collaborate with synchrotron-based and/or neutron-based large scale facilities to develop innovative experimental approaches, addressing key scientific questions in the science of cements as complex, porous, nanostructured materials. 
  • You will be an active participant in a joint experimental-modelling research program on the materials science and fundamental mechanisms of adhesion in cements. This will involve collaboration and teamwork with colleagues within and beyond PSI. 
  • You will publish the results of your work in high-impact journal papers, showcase your research in conference and workshop presentations, and write a PhD thesis to conclude your doctoral studies.

Your profile

We are looking for an enthusiastic and collaborative laboratory-focused researcher, with skills and experience in materials science, and a particular interest in innovative methods to characterise porous materials. Experience of working with cementitious materials is advantageous, but researchers with a broader experience base and who are interested to build new skills in this area are welcomed. The candidate should have a good understanding of the experimental characterisation of materials, and the willingness to collaborate with colleagues and share high-level intellectual contributions within a multidisciplinary team. The successful candidate will have a Masters degree in Natural Sciences / Chemical Engineering / Materials Science / Civil Engineering Materials / Geochemistry or a closely related field. Excellent knowledge of English is essential, and an ability to communicate in German is also an advantage.

We offer

Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from 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 Fixed-Term position with a 4 year term, subject to satisfactory progress within the framework of the doctoral programme in which the appointee will be enrolled.

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. John Provis, email john.provis@psi.ch or phone +41 56 310 41 35.

Please submit your application online (including list of publications and addresses of referees) by 31 May 2025 for the position as a PhD student (index no. 4406-01).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Mariusz Prus, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland