This PhD position offers a unique opportunity to work on the development of acousto-plasmonic biosensors through a joint supervision (cotutelle) program between the Institut Jean Lamour (IJL) at University of Lorraine, France, and the Laboratoire Nanotechnologies Nanosystèmes (LN2) at University of Sherbrooke, Canada. The project is supported by the French Space Agency (CNES) and focuses on the design, simulation, fabrication, and characterization of hybrid acousto-plasmonic metasurfaces for high-sensitivity, label-free cell sensing. The research bridges nanotechnology, materials science, physics, and biophysics, with applications in biomedical diagnostics and space health monitoring.

The doctoral work will involve advanced multiphysics simulations (using COMSOL and Matlab) to model the coupling between surface acoustic waves (SAWs) and localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR), followed by nanofabrication of hybrid metasurfaces using high-resolution lithography. The candidate will perform experimental measurements to assess biosensor performance, including cell adhesion and mechanosensitive responses under acoustic and thermal stimulation. The project aims to create a new class of active metasurface biosensors capable of real-time, high-resolution monitoring of biological processes, relevant for both terrestrial and space environments.

The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in physics, photonics, acoustics, materials science, or nanotechnology, with proficiency in simulation tools (COMSOL, Lumerical), clean room experience, and a basic understanding of biology or biophysics. French language proficiency (B1 or higher) is required. The position is partially funded by CNES, with additional funding applications in progress. The successful applicant will benefit from a dynamic, international research environment, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and collaboration with leading experts in the field.

To apply, candidates should prepare a resume, a recent transcript, and a reference letter from their M2 supervisor or engineering school director, and submit their application online before March 13th, 2026. For further information, contact Dr. Jean-François Bryche or Prof. Frédéric Sarry by email. More details are available on the CNES and IJL websites.