PhD Student on Hydrogen diffusion and precipitation along claddings of nuclear fuel rods

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 2200 people. 

For the Nuclear Fuels group of the Laboratory for Nuclear Materials we are looking for a

PhD Student on Hydrogen diffusion and precipitation along claddings of nuclear fuel rods

Your tasks

• Perform thermal and thermomechanical tests on nuclear fuel cladding tube sections consisting of zirconium alloys 
• Perform hydrogen loading of the test material, understand and describe hydrogen diffusion and precipitation depending on texture and microstructure 
• Use standard characterization methods like metallography, advanced methods as scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and cutting-edge neutron imaging at PSI’s spallation neutron source SINQ 
• Cooperate with our industry partner (intermediate storage of spent nuclear fuel, international projects) 
• Publish your results at international conferences and in peer-reviewed journals

Your profile

• Master in physics, chemistry, materials science, or related topics
• Hands-on practical work experience, ability to work in a multidisciplinary and international team 
• Good knowledge of English, knowledge of German is an important advantage 
• You are prepared to support work in a hot laboratory and to take shifts of beam campaigns

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 Dr. Johannes Bertsch, phone , , or Dr. Liliana Duarte , . 

Please submit your application online by 31 July 2024 (including addresses of referees) for the position as a PhD Student (index no. 4602-01).

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