ESRF - PhD student at ESRF - studying f-elements for quantum technologies

At a glance

Job title: PhD student at ESRF - studying f-elements for quantum technologies
Ref.: NS25-ESRF07
Contract type: Time-limited contract
Salary range: 32.7k euros
Deadline for applications: 02/05/2025
Expected deadline of applications: 02/05/2025
Publication start on Front Office : Site internet: 03/03/2025
Contract duration: 36 months

Context & Job description

Thesis subject: f-elements for quantum technologies.

Research breakthroughs that exploit the quantum behaviour of atoms and molecules over the last two decades open the door to exciting new technologies for ultra-precise imaging, deep-space navigation, satellite technology and climate modelling. However, the steps from fundamental science to applications are uncertain, sparking a global investment race in quantum research.

This project will explore “f-block” molecules composed of lanthanides (La to Lu) and actinides (U, Th) as quantum bits due to their controllable quantum spin-states and chemistry that can be tuned to couple with their surrounding environment or mimic free-ion behaviour. High-energy-resolution X-ray spectroscopy (at ID26, ID20 and ID32, ESRF), inelastic neutron spectroscopy (at IN4 and IN5, ILL), and electron paramagnetic resonance (University of Manchester) will reveal how electronic structure can be engineered to control quantum spin dynamics.

The research will be carried out at the three partner institutes. The project will provide a strong basis for understanding material requirements for quantum devices, a rapidly growing technological sector. Highly sought-after expertise within quantum technology and nuclear sectors will be obtained. This will include experience in handling highly air-sensitive and low-level radioactive samples using anaerobic methods (glovebox, vacuum environments) and a nuanced understanding of f-element electronic structure.

Spectroscopic measurement and analysis procedures will be developed as part of the thesis, resulting in internationally leading expertise. In parallel, the student will become accomplished in theoretical computation of electronic structure, bonding and the simulation of spectra.

Transferable skills obtained will be relevant to the science, technology and engineering sectors, including computer programming, (beam)time management, designing experiments and writing impactful scientific publications.

Further information may be obtained from: Dr Michael Baker (+44 161 306 5686, michael.baker@manchester.ac.uk), Dr Pieter Glatzel (+33 476 88 2968, glatzel@esrf.fr), co-supervisors Jacques Ollivier ollivier@ill.fr, and Steve Liddle steve.liddle@manchester.ac.uk.

Expected profile

• Applicants should have, or be expected to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (such as MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent) in a relevant natural science (chemistry, physics, material science, etc).

• Some experience in spectroscopy and knowledge of electronic structure are desirable.

• Some experience in the computation of electronic structure and basic coding/scripting skills are desirable.

• Manual skills in conducting experiments with rigorous attention to detail are essential in this work environment.

• Proficiency in English (A proof of upper-intermediate B2 level must be included in the application. Applicants originating from native-English-speaking countries can apply without the need for proof of level. An official degree conducted in English will be also accepted as a proof). If the applicant is unable to provide proof, an English test (free of charge) will be requested.

• Compliance with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule: candidates may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the host institute’s country for more than twelve months in the three years immediately before the date of the application deadline.

• All researchers recruited must be doctoral candidates, i.e. not already working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment.

• Candidates must satisfy the conditions for enrolment in a doctoral programme.

Working conditions

The successful candidate will be enrolled in the doctoral school at the University of Manchester (United Kingdom) and based full-time at the ESRF (Grenoble, France) for 36 months with another 12 months at the University of Manchester. Furthermore, a varied pedagogical training programme will be offered to the successful candidate throughout the 4-year PhD project.

Do you recognize yourself in this description ? Apply now for your next professional adventure !

What we offer:

Join an innovative international research institute, with a workforce from 38 different countries
Collaborate with global experts to advance science and address societal challenges
Come and live in a vibrant city, in the heart of the Alps, and Europe's Green Capital 2022
Enjoy a workplace designed to support your quality of life
Benefit from our competitive compensation and allowances package, including financial support for your relocation to Grenoble

For further information on employment terms and conditions, please refer to https://www.esrf.fr/home/Jobs/what-we-offer.html

The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.

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Company description

More details about the Nextstep Doctoral Programme on www.nextstep-programme.eu

NEXTSTEP will train 36 enthusiastic researchers to exploit the unique and transversal capabilities of analytical research infrastructures in tackling the challenges associated with sustainable development and industrial competitiveness in the areas of “Health”, “Digital, Industry & Space”, “Climate, Energy and Mobility” and “Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment”, which are at the heart of Horizon Europe. Host laboratories: ESRF and ILL (France), FZJ (Germany), AREA (Italy), NTNU (Norway).