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 adhesive character of cementitious hydrates, and its relationship to pore solution chemistry. In particular, the experimental work of the appointee will provide ground-breaking new insight into the time-dependency of interfaces in cements in both the fluid and hardened states. 

We are looking for a

Postdoctoral Fellow

Apply online now

Your tasks

  • You will study the interfacial chemistry of cements, to investigate a question that has been the topic of debate for over 130 years: how does cement actually set? 
  • You will plan and conduct experiments on adhesion processes and mechanisms in cementitious materials, particularly using atomic force microscopy and rheometry, in combination with other experimental techniques as appropriate 
  • You will be a central team member in a joint experimental-modelling research program on the materials science and fundamental mechanisms of adhesion in cements 
  • You will aid in training and guiding junior colleagues (e.g. PhD students), helping them to plan and conduct their own designated research tasks within the project 
  • You will in turn be guided and trained at a higher level, to build your own skills and capabilities as a researcher 
  • You will publish the results of your work in high-impact journal papers, and showcase your research in conference and workshop presentations

Your profile

We are looking for an expert laboratory-focused researcher, with skills and experience in surface characterisation techniques and/or rheometry applied to oxide minerals and suspensions. Experience of working with cementitious materials is desirable, but researchers with a broader experience base and who are interested to further build skills in this area are also 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 PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Natural Sciences / Chemical Engineering / Materials Science / 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 2 year employment contract. Further extension up to 4 years is possible depending on performance and progress of the project. 

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 by 19 June 2025 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a postdoctoral fellow (index no. 4406-02).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Serdal Varol, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland