Postdoctoral Fellowship – Optical Aerosol Metrology and Embedded Measurement Systems

INSA Rouen Normandie; France; Sur place; EUR 40 000 - 50 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A well-respected research institute in France seeks a Metrology Researcher for a postdoc position focused on innovative optical measurement systems. The role involves designing detection configurations, analyzing experimental data, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Ideal candidates hold a PhD and have experience in optical instrumentation. This position offers a unique chance to engage in cutting-edge research with a significant impact on environmental monitoring and fire safety applications.

Qualifications

• PhD in physics, optics, photonics, or related field required.
• Solid experience in experimental setups and optical instrumentation.
• Skills in data analysis using Python preferred.

Responsabilités

• Design optical configuration for backscattering detection.
• Develop data analysis and inversion methods.
• Integrate new modules into the existing system.

Connaissances

PhD in physics, optics, instrumentation engineering or related field

Solid experience in experimental setups

Interest in aerosol science and environmental applications

Skills in post processing of experimental data using Python

Scientific publication capacity

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Strong problem-solving skills

Good command of English

Formation

PhD or equivalent

Description du poste

Organisation/Company INSA Rouen Normandie Department Seine Maritime Research Field Physics » Metrology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Postdoc Positions Country France Application Deadline 8 Jan 2026 - 23:00 (Europe/Paris) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 2 Mar 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Airborne soot and other nanoparticles, particularly those emitted during large-scale fires or industrial activities, pose major risks to human health and the environment. Yet, no mobile solution currently exists to provide detailed, on-site information on their concentration, size distribution, morphology, and nature. EMPEROR builds upon the successful FIREDRONE project, in which our team designed a miniaturized optical system based on cavity enhanced multi-wavelength extinction and scattering measurements. The next step is to integrate the evaluation of backscattering and light depolarization measurement within the optical cavity, enabling discrimination of particle types (mineral dust, bioaerosols, soot, etc.) and providing key input parameters for remote-sensing approaches such as LIDAR.

The postdoctoral researcher will play a central role in the scientific and technological development of this new measurement experimental setup. Responsibilities include:

• Designing and implementing the optical configuration for backscattering and depolarization detection, which is the main challenge from a fundamental point of view.
• Developing data analysis and inversion methods (multi-wavelength and multi-angle scattering models).
• Integrating the new modules into the existing compact cavity system (optics, electronics, control).
• Performing laboratory campaigns on well-controlled aerosols and if possible contributing to field tests (including comparisons with LIDAR data).

The project is highly interdisciplinary, combining experimental optics, aerosol physics, laser diagnostics, and instrument engineering. It will be supervised by Dr. Marek Mazur and Prof. Jérôme Yon within the “Aerosol Metrology” group at CORIA, internationally recognized for its expertise in optical diagnostics and soot characterization. The position will be part of a subgroup dedicated on the research on particle characterisation with optical cavity measurements and including one PhD student, one engineer and multiple interns working on the topic. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a unique instrumentation project with strong perspectives for technology transfer, patenting, and real-world applications in fire safety, air quality, and environmental monitoring.

Where to apply

E-mail [e-mail]

Requirements

Research Field Physics » Metrology Education Level PhD or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications

• PhD in physics, optics, photonics, instrumentation engineering or related field
• Solid experience in experimental setups, optical instrumentation, or laser diagnostics
• Interest in aerosol science and environmental applications.
• Solid skills in post processing of experimental data (ideally using Python)
• Strong motivation to work in a collaborative, applied research environment bridging academic innovation and industrial/societal impact is essential.
• Proven capacity of scientific publication in peer reviewed journals and/or in international conferences
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good spoken and written command of English language, French is not required but an asset

Specific Requirements

The EMPEROR project offers a unique opportunity to work in an internationally renowned research laboratory on cutting-edge technology in the field of environmental monitoring, with a focus on practical solutions for fire response. You will be part of an innovative team that is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of portable measurement systems. The role offers the chance to gain valuable experience in a multidisciplinary setting, working with advanced materials and technologies that have a real-world impact.

Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Languages FRENCH Level Excellent

Research Field Physics » Metrology Years of Research Experience 1 - 4

Additional Information

Selection process

Please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your relevant experience, and any supporting documentation to Marek Mazur ( [e-mail] ) and Jérôme Yon ( [e-mail] ) until the 8th january 2026

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute INSA DE ROUEN Country France State/Province Normandie City SAINT ETIENNE DU ROUVRAY Postal Code 76800 Street INSA Rouen Normandie Avenue de l'Université, BP8 Geofield