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. 

In the Integrated Photonics and Nanoelectronics group we are looking to hire a post-doc with expertise in optical characterization. The chosen candidate should have strong hands-on experience in the build-up and operation of optical set-ups including automation. You will be supporting two projects, one focuses on specifically on photonic neuromorphic devices based on random lasing for machine learning applications where also device fabrication will be carried out in the PSI cleanroom, and you will also be supporting the optical characterization needs of the SNSF SUGAR project in the SWIR around 2um.

Postdoctoral Fellow for optical characterization and neuromorphic photonics

Apply online now

Your tasks

  • Develop new optical set-ups specifically for localized illumination using a digital micromirror device (DMD), but more generally for optical characterization in the NIR to SWIR
  • Develop detection capability around 2um wavelength for microlasers
  • Acquisition of required optical active and passive components
  • Fabricate photonic neuromorphic devices for random lasing networks in the cleanroom at PSI
  • Be responsible for the characterization of the fabricated devices
  • Implement automation and machine learning routines
  • Supervise PhD Students working on the project
  • Presentation of results at conferences and publication in relevant journals

Your profile

  • PhD degree in electrical engineering, physics or related field
  • Extensive hands-on experience with optical characterization and the building of optical set-ups in the NIR
  • Knowledge of solid state physics and photonic devices designs and their fabrication
  • Experience with neuromorphic photonics and neural networks is a strong asset
  • Excellent written and spoken English language skills

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 initially limited to 18 months.

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr Kirsten Moselund, phone +41 56 310 34 15. 

Please submit your application online by 31 May 2025 (including list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (Index-Nr. 6717-00).

Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Mariusz Prus, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland