Research Engineer – Nanofabrication 80–100%

The Paul Scherrer Institut seeks a Research Engineer for its PICO cleanroom facility in Villigen. This mid-level role blends nanofabrication, software development, and equipment management to support world-class scientific research.

This position is central to the operation and evolution of the PICO (Park Innovaare Cleanroom for Optics and Innovation) facility. The engineer will manage the technical infrastructure that allows hundreds of academic and industrial researchers to conduct advanced science. The role merges hands-on cleanroom expertise with software development and instrumentation management to ensure seamless facility performance.

Responsibilities

• Design and refine nanofabrication workflows, specifically utilizing direct-write laser lithography and wet chemical methods.
• Serve as the primary technical authority and owner for DWL lithography tools and other cleanroom machinery, handling commissioning, maintenance, upgrades, and user assistance.
• Build and sustain the software backbone for facility operations, including the time-tracking system for access and billing, the process database, and the PICO website.
• Offer technical and administrative guidance to cleanroom users, arrange training sessions, and foster a welcoming atmosphere for an international user base.
• Maintain precise records of facility usage and handle invoicing in compliance with various funding agency regulations.
• Identify and resolve technical faults on laboratory instruments, performing electronic and mechanical repairs when possible.
• Partner with PSI research teams as well as external academic and industrial collaborators on joint R&D initiatives.
• Drive ongoing enhancements to the PICO cleanroom’s physical infrastructure and its digital ecosystem.

Requirements

• A Master’s degree (MSc) or equivalent qualification in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Microengineering, Nanotechnology, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Proven programming experience using Python.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with cleanroom technologies.
• Fluent command of the English language.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with PHP, database management, web technologies, or software automation tools.
• Prior exposure to direct-write lithography or semiconductor processing workflows.
• Ability to communicate in German.

What the company offers

• A highly interdisciplinary position that integrates nanofabrication, software engineering, scientific instrumentation, and research infrastructure management.
• The chance to become the leading technical expert for state-of-the-art direct-write laser lithography systems and other advanced cleanroom equipment.
• Access to a modern cleanroom facility dedicated to cutting-edge research in nanotechnology, quantum technologies, photonics, microfabrication, and advanced materials.
• Opportunities to collaborate with internationally recognized researchers and industrial partners.
• A stimulating work environment characterized by significant independence, responsibility, and professional growth opportunities.
• Competitive employment conditions at one of Europe’s premier multidisciplinary research institutes.

About the company

The Paul Scherrer Institut stands as Switzerland’s largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences. It conducts pioneering work in future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation, and the fundamentals of nature. The institute is deeply committed to training the next generation, with approximately one quarter of its staff comprising post-docs, post-graduates, or apprentices.

• Leading research in critical fields such as energy, climate, health, and fundamental science.
• Strong emphasis on training and mentoring future scientists and engineers.
• A diverse workforce with a significant portion of staff being early-career researchers and students.

How to apply

Documents to submit:

• Application