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 2100 people.

The Target Facilities, Beamlines and Simulations Section has the task to characterize the radioactive waste coming from PSI's accelerator facilities. This task is performed using MCNP, a general purpose Monte Carlo particle transport code. The calculated nuclide inventory and dose rate shall be compared to measurements at reference samples. The material compositions of the samples are already analyzed and the samples are irradiated at the High Intensity Proton Accelerator (HIPA).

For this project we are looking for a

Trainee

Comparative analysis of the numerical and experimental nuclide inventories of the metallic samples from the irradiation with neutrons

Your tasks

  • Perform Monte Carlo calculations of the neutron flux during irradiation
  • Calculate the nuclide inventory and the dose rate of the samples
  • Compare the data of the measurements and the results of Monte Carlo simulations
  • Perform sensitivity study regarding the relation of material impurities and isotope production
  • Present the results of your internship in the scientific meeting of the section and summarize it in a PSI technical report

Your profile

  • Student in nuclear physics, nuclear engineering or similar (minimum 4 semesters)
  • You already have the basic knowledge or are interested and willing to learn one or more of the following:
    • General purpose Monte Carlo particle transport codes (MCNP or similar)
    • Nuclide inventory and evolution codes (FISPACT or similar)
    • Programming for the analysis of the scientific data (Python, Perl or other)
  • You have not yet completed your Master’s thesis

We offer

Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration.

This contract will be limited to 3 months.

For further information, please contact Dr Vadim Talanov, phone +41 56 310 33 56.

Please submit your application online for the position as a Trainee (index no. 8142-T1).

Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management,  Leandra Horn, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
Apply online now