Trainee for Synthesis and Processing of Inorganic Oxide-based Materials

The Paul Scherrer Institut seeks a full-time trainee to synthesize and characterize inorganic oxide materials within its Laboratory for Energy Technologies & Innovation.

This internship is situated within the Synthesis and Processing Platform group, where the primary objective is the production and advanced characterization of inorganic oxide-based materials. The position offers a hands-on, experimental approach to the ceramic processing chain and material science, allowing the trainee to engage with industrial-scale projects in an international research setting.

Responsibilities

• Produce inorganic oxide materials utilizing specialized apparatus, specifically Flame Spray Pyrolysis (FSP) reactors.
• Conduct thermal treatments to guarantee material stability and ensure phase purity.
• Carry out systematic structural and morphological analyses using techniques such as XRD, SEM, and BET.
• Keep accurate and detailed records of all experimental procedures and resulting data.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in Materials Science, Inorganic Chemistry, Ceramic Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Be in the final year of undergraduate studies, having completed at least four semesters.
• Demonstrate experience in solid-state chemistry and inorganic synthesis methods.
• Possess foundational knowledge of wet chemistry or ceramic processing techniques.
• Show an analytical mindset and familiarity with materials characterization tools including XRD, SEM, and BET.
• Have not yet finished a Master’s thesis.
• Be proficient in English to handle documentation and international collaboration.
• Maintain a strong awareness of laboratory safety protocols.

Nice to have

• Prior exposure to pelletizing, shaping, or sol-gel chemistry.

What the company offers

• A fixed-term contract lasting between three and six months.
• The chance to gain unique insights into scientific collaborations and develop high-level expertise.

About the company

The Paul Scherrer Institut stands as Switzerland’s largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences. It conducts cutting-edge research in future technologies, energy, climate, health innovation, and the fundamentals of nature. The institution is built on interdisciplinary, innovative, and dynamic collaboration, and is deeply committed to training future generations, with approximately one quarter of its staff comprising post-docs, post-graduates, or apprentices.

• Largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences in Switzerland.
• Focus on cutting-edge research in energy, climate, health, and nature fundamentals.
• Strong commitment to training future generations, with a significant portion of staff being post-docs or apprentices.
• Culture based on interdisciplinary, innovative, and dynamic collaboration.