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 PhD position is part of BeyondCloudlab, a collaborative project with PSI, ETHZ, and University of Oslo. BeyondCloudlab builds upon the Cloudlab project (https://cloudlab.ethz.ch/) and leverages weather modification techniques using drones to enhance our understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions, ice crystal growth, cloud-radiation interactions, precipitation initiation, and cloud seeding. The PhD student will be enrolled at the Department of Environmental Systems Sciences (D-USYS) at ETHZ.

For the group Atmosphere – Biosphere Interactions at the Laboratory of Atmospheric Chemistry we are looking for a

PhD Student

Apply online now

Your tasks

  • Investigate the chemical composition of cloud seeds, cloud liquid water and cloud ice particles using advanced mass spectrometric and other analytical techniques. The PhD student will take part in the field campaigns in Switzerland for sample collection and support of the overall experiment and perform sample analysis in the laboratory at PSI. 
  • Data analysis and interpretation 
  • Dissemination of the scientific results in form of scientific publications and conferences 
  • Support teaching activities generally at the institution of the thesis advisor and/or perform specific maintenance tasks 
  • Attend research and training activities 
  • Fulfill credit requirements of D-USYS ETHZ by taking classes and participating in schools 
  • Support in supervision of MSc and BSc theses

Your profile

  • Master degree in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Chemistry, Physics, or related fields 
  • Ability to produce experimental data under supervision and capability of critical analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of new and complex ideas 
  • Some experience in experimental atmospheric research 
  • Good knowledge of English 
  • Ability to work in a team

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. 

For further information, please contact Prof. Claudia Mohr, phone +41 56 310 54 77. 

Please submit your application online by 18 July 2025 (including addresses of referees) for the position as a PhD student (index no. 5500-00).

Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Robin Schmid, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland