Group Leader

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 matter and materials, energy and environment and human health. 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 2100 people. The Laboratory for Waste Management LES conducts multidisciplinary research in the field of the geological disposal of radioactive waste. LES maintains a unique combination of experimental infrastructure and modelling capabilities for studying radionuclide retention and reactive transport processes in the near‐field of cementitious repository systems. The research aspects of waste degradation, reactivity of the barriers, extended interim storage and decommissioning are topics of high relevance in the Swiss waste disposal program. These studies have strong synergies with the fields of environmental engineering, circular economy including carbon capture and sequestration and long-term performance of construction materials. For the development of expert knowledge in the field of "repository and material chemistry” we are looking for a **Group Leader***: Cementitious Repository Systems **Your tasks**: - Conduct of an experimental research program on the geochemical evolution of underground cementitious repository systems with special focus on near‐field chemistry, radionuclide speciation, materials chemistry and nuclear waste degradation processes - Supervision of scientific research projects incl. initiation of new lines of research in collaboration with national and international partner research institutes - Coaching of experienced scientists, technical staff and early carrier researchers (PhD, Postdocs). Supervision of the team’s scientific performance, personnel management, budgeting - Scientific consulting work for waste disposal implementers **Your profile**: - You hold a PhD degree in materials science, environmental chemistry or related disciplines - You are an expert in materials science and are interested to continue and broaden the activities of the cement systems group - Experience in radioactive waste disposal research is beneficial - Previous collaboration with waste management organizations and participation in European research programs, as well as your engagement into international networks are a clear advantage - You possess strong leadership qualities and people management skills, innovative thinking and a high motivation to launch collaborative projects in waste management, environmental science and energy research - Excellent knowledge of English is required and knowledge of German is a great advantage **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. While the employment contract is initially limited to three years (Tenure Track), long-term employment is envisaged. For further information, please contact Prof. Dr Sergey Churakov, phone +41 56 310 41 13 Paul Scherrer Institut, Human Resources Management, Elke Baumann, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland