PhD Student in operando microfluidic reactors

Join to apply for the PhD Student in operando microfluidic reactors role at PSI Laboratory for Energy Systems Analysis (LEA).

The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences in Switzerland. We conduct cutting‑edge research in future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamental science. By combining fundamental and applied research, we pursue sustainable solutions to major societal, scientific and economic challenges. PSI is committed to training future generations – about one quarter of our staff are post‑docs, post‑graduates or apprentices.

The institute employs approximately 2,300 people.

For the Syn Flow group in the Femtochemistry laboratory we are looking for a PhD Student who will work on operando microfluidic reactors.

Our goals for this position:

• Design microfluidic reactors for operando studies of photocatalysts, including hydrogen evolution reactions (HER), hydrogenation reactions, and decomposition of organic pollutants.
• Perform experiments in PSI laboratories and at synchrotron radiation facilities, and process and analyze data.
• Optimize and automate reaction parameters, correlating structural data with catalytic performance.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, materials science or a related field.
• Ability to conduct experimental and theoretical work, seek new solutions, and work independently.
• Background in heterogeneous catalysis, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis or microfluidics.
• Understanding of spectroscopic techniques relevant to the research.
• Experience in scientific programming using Python for data analysis.
• Strong communication skills and ability to integrate into an interdisciplinary research team.

What we offer:

• Interdisciplinary, innovative, and dynamic collaboration within a world‑class research environment.
• Systematic on‑the‑job training and personal development opportunities.
• Modern employment conditions and on‑site infrastructure that support a healthy work–life balance.

For further information, please contact Dr. Aram Bugaev (aram.bugaev). Submit your online application by 15 February 2026
, including referee contacts, for the PhD Student position (Index‑‑00).

Human Resources Management, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland.