PREDOCTORAL RESEARCH POSITION IN THE NANOPHYSICS LABORATORY: Optical Quantum Sensing at the Atomic Limit

CFM-Centro de Física de Materiales/MPC-Materials Physics Center; España; On-site; EUR 16,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nanophysics Lab at CFM is seeking a First Stage Researcher (R1) for a PhD project funded by La Caixa Foundation. The project combines low-temperature scanning probe microscopy with pulsed laser excitation to study optical properties of quantum systems.

Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Physics, Nanoscience or a closely related field. Expertise in scanning probe microscopy, ultra-high vacuum or nanophotonics will be highly appreciated, as well as background in experimental work and

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Physics, Nanoscience or closely related field.
• Experience with scanning probe microscopy, ultra-high vacuum or nanophotonics is highly valued.
• Excellent English skills, written and spoken, and enthusiasm for experimental research in a diverse, international environment.

Skills

Scanning probe microscopy

Ultra-high vacuum

Nanophotonics

Data analysis

Experimental work

Education

Master's degree in Physics

Master's degree in Nanoscience

Related field

Tools

None

Job description

Organisation/Company CFM-Centro de Física de Materiales/MPC-Materials Physics Center Research Field Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Application Deadline 20 Nov 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Country Spain Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 37,5 Offer Starting Date 1 Feb 2027 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The PhD project focuses on the development of a nanoscale quantum sensor to investigate optical properties of quantum systems with unprecedented precision by combining low-temperature scanning probe microscopy (SPM) with pulsed laser excitation and optical detection schemes. The sensor will be employed to explore 2D van-der-Waals materials, low-dimensional quantum systems and exciton dynamics in individual molecules, laying the foundations for novel quantum technologies and new reaction pathways in quantum chemistry.

The positions will be funded by "La Caixa" Foundation. The selected candidate will be hired by the Research Association MPC - Materials Physics Center. The salary will be 19.007,22€ during the first year before taxes.

The Nanophysics Lab at CFM is a highly international research group combining diverse expertise on surface science for investigation of materials for quantum technologies and molecular precision chemical sensors. The group works deeply embedded within the striving research community of the Basque country. The PhD project offers a unique opportunity for gaining experience in a highly interdisciplinary environment bringing together solid- state physics, nanophotonics and organic chemistry at the forefront of scientific research and the development of quantum technologies.

Candidates must hold a Master s degree in Physics, Nanoscience or a closely related field. Expertise in scanning probe microscopy, ultra-high vacuum or nanophotonics will be highly appreciated, as well as background in experimental work and data analysis. Excellent English skills in spoken and written form, as well as passion and excitement for experimental research within a highly collaborative, diverse and international environment are required. Women and non-male candidates are especially encouraged to apply.