Internship in Physics-Based Modeling and Simulation (Plasma Dynamics)

About the role

ABB offers an internship (80-100% time, 6 months, flexible start early 2027) in physics-based modeling and simulation of plasma dynamics in electrical arcs. The internship reports to the R&D Team Lead and sits within the Theoretical and Computational Methods Team at the Swiss ABB research center, which develops and maintains models and numerical tools for ABB products. It is an on-site position.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to research projects developing, implementing and validating physical models for plasma-related phenomena relevant to ABB devices.
• Work at the interface of physical modeling, numerical simulation and experimental validation.
• Collaborate with researchers to assess, develop and validate physics-based models for industrial applications.
• Review scientific literature and evaluate modeling approaches for complex physical phenomena.
• Implement and validate selected models using commercial simulation software and in-house tools.
• Extend simulation capabilities through model development, numerical implementation, software coding and documentation of results.

Required profile

• Student enrolled in Physics, Engineering Physics, Computational Physics or a related physics subject (advanced B.Sc. or M.Sc.).
• Strong background in physics and numerical simulation of physical systems, interest in plasma physics.
• Curiosity, analytical and problem-solving skills, good written and verbal communication, and English fluency.
• Availability for six months; flexible start date early 2027.

Required skills

• Good scientific programming skills (e.g. C++, Python or similar).
• Experience with simulation software is beneficial; familiarity with tools such as COMSOL, Ansys or similar platforms, as well as open-source simulation frameworks, is an advantage.

Applications include a CV and cover letter. The recruiting process is handled by the Talent Acquisition partner Emma Aslani.