PhD Position - Non-perturbative light-matter interaction in solids

Organisation/Company: CNR

Department: IFN

Research Field: Physics

Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)

Positions: PhD Positions

Country: Italy

Application Deadline: 1 May 2025 - 12:00 (Europe/Rome)

Type of Contract: Temporary

Job Status: Full-time

Offer Starting Date: 1 Sep 2025

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - MSCA Marie Curie

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

We are seeking one motivated PhD student to join the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network SPARKLE, a cutting-edge research network focused on “Advancing Polaritonics and Quantum Technology by Modifying Material Functionalities with Classical and Quantum Light.”

About the SPARKLE Project:

SPARKLE is an ambitious research and training network at the forefront of polaritonics and light-matter hybrid systems. It combines cutting-edge experimental techniques with advanced theoretical simulations to pioneer new approaches in the field. SPARKLE will train 14 highly skilled early-stage researchers across diverse disciplines, including quantum optics, solid-state physics, ab-initio material simulations, photonic engineering, laser physics, and ultrafast spectroscopy. By equipping them with both technical expertise and transferable skills in entrepreneurship and project management, SPARKLE prepares the next generation of scientific leaders for careers in both academia and industry.

By joining this network, you will contribute to advancements in:

• Developing cutting-edge experimental spectroscopic techniques to probe light-matter interactions at ultrafast timescales.
• Exploring non-perturbative light-matter coupling mechanisms in quantum materials.
• Investigating the formation and dissociation of polaron-excitons in 2D metal halide perovskites.
• Utilizing tailored light sources, including intense terahertz (THz) pulses and high-harmonic generation, to drive and study emergent quantum phases.
• Bridging fundamental research in condensed matter physics with innovative applications in photonics and optoelectronics.

As a PhD student at CNR-IFN, you will:

• Conduct cutting-edge research on non-perturbative light-matter interactions in solids, focusing on 2D metal halide perovskites.
• Work with state-of-the-art ultrafast laser systems, high-order harmonic spectroscopy, THz pump-probe spectroscopy, and time-resolved X-ray absorption techniques.
• Design and perform ultrafast spectroscopy experiments to explore the interplay between excitons and phonons in semiconductors and 2D semiconductors.
• Analyze complex experimental data and develop theoretical models to understand ultrafast charge and energy dynamics.
• Collaborate with leading research institutions within the SPARKLE network and participate in international workshops and training events.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering or a related discipline.
• A strong background in ultrafast and nonlinear optics and condensed matter physics.
• Experience (or a strong interest) in experimental laser physics, spectroscopy, and advanced data analysis.
• Motivation to work in a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.
• Proficiency in English (both written and spoken) and excellent communication skills.
• Willingness to participate in international collaborations and secondments within the SPARKLE network.

Additional Information

• A fully funded PhD position within a prestigious European training network.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities at CNR-IFN and collaboration opportunities with top international institutions.
• Participation in dedicated training programs, workshops, and summer schools to enhance scientific and transferable skills.
• Opportunities for secondments at leading academic and industrial partners within the SPARKLE network.
• A competitive salary and benefits in accordance with the MSCA Doctoral Network regulations.

Eligibility criteria:

Candidates for the PhD positions must have a Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or a related discipline by the time they commence the project.

Important: As for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions mobility rule, to be hired you must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Italy for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before their recruitment date.

Selection process:

CNR-IFN is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of their gender, nationality, or background. Candidates will be pre-selected based on their application and invited for an interview for further assessment.

Additional comments:

Should you have any queries regarding the positions, please contact Dr. Caterina Vozzi at caterina.vozzi@cnr.it.