Postdoctoral Fellow (SwissFEL)

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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 Alvra group, based at SwissFEL, specializes in measuring ultrafast dynamics of photochemical and photobiological systems using a variety of X‑ray scattering and spectroscopic techniques. In collaboration with the group of Prof. Hyotcherl Ihee at the Center for Advanced Reaction Dynamics CARD in the Institute for Basic Science IBS, we are looking for a Postdoctoral Fellow (SwissFEL).

Your tasks

You will investigate ultrafast structural dynamics in small molecule crystals using time‑resolved Serial Femtosecond Crystallography (sm‑SFX) at SwissFEL, in collaboration with the Center for Advanced Reaction Dynamics CARD in the Institute for Basic Science IBS. Your work will focus on designing and optimizing experimental setups for time‑resolved sm‑SFX, conducting femtosecond pump–probe measurements, and acquiring high‑quality diffraction data. You will also be responsible for maintaining and improving the experimental system to ensure stable and reproducible performance. In collaboration with other staff members, you will troubleshoot issues related to the beamline and sample delivery systems. You will be expected to present your findings at international conferences and publish them in peer‑reviewed journals.

Your profile

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow with a PhD degree in chemistry, physics, or a related field, and a strong background in ultrafast science or molecular X‑ray techniques – such as small‑molecule X‑ray liquidography and/or crystallography. Experience with XFEL experiments or femtosecond laser systems is desirable but not essential. Familiarity with time‑resolved experimental systems, including the development and understanding of crystal sample delivery methods for serial X‑ray experiments, is also preferred. The ideal candidate will be capable of designing experiments to acquire high‑quality ultrafast time‑resolved data at XFEL facilities and will possess excellent data analysis skills, particularly in handling large time‑resolved datasets. A strong enthusiasm for uncovering molecular reaction mechanisms at the atomic scale is essential. We are looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and international research environment and who takes a proactive approach to problem‑solving and idea sharing.

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. Your employment contract is limited to 2 years with a possible extension to 3 years. For further information, please contact Dr Camila Bacellar, phone or email Please submit your application online by 14 November 2025 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index‑Nr. 6414‑24312). Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Pascale Bärtschi, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland.

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