The GREMAN laboratory at the University of Tours, in collaboration with CETHIL and international partners, is offering a PhD position focused on molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the influence of ferroelectric topological structures on thermal conductivity. The research will center on perovskite materials such as BaTiO3, exploring how domain wall number and orientation, temperature, and system geometry (bulk, thin film, membrane, super-lattice) affect thermal transport properties. This interdisciplinary project combines materials science, physics, and scientific computing, and will involve short research stays at CETHIL in Lyon and collaboration with international teams. Key research areas include molecular dynamics simulations, ferroelectric materials, topological structures, nanomaterials, and thermal conductivity. The successful candidate will contribute to advancing the understanding of heat flow in complex materials, with potential applications in energy engineering and nanotechnology. The position is fully funded with a gross monthly salary of approximately €2,300.00 for 36 months, starting October 1, 2026. Applicants should have a strong background in molecular dynamics, materials science, or physics, and be comfortable working in interdisciplinary and international environments. Experience with perovskite materials, scientific computing, and thermal transport is highly desirable. The research will be conducted at the GREMAN laboratory (UMR CNRS 7347), University of Tours, Parc Grandmont, 37200 Tours, France. To apply, contact the supervisors by email ([email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]) before March 20, 2026. Please include your academic background and research interests in your application. For more information, refer to the official announcement and the GREMAN laboratory website.

The University of Tours, in collaboration with CNRS and INSA Centre Val de Loire, is offering a fully funded PhD position in the GREMAN laboratory, focusing on molecular dynamics simulations of the influence of ferroelectric topological structures on thermal conductivity. The research will explore how domain walls and their orientations in ferroelectric materials, particularly perovskites like BaTiO3, affect thermal transport properties. The project will use advanced simulation techniques to study parameters such as the number and direction of domain walls, temperature effects, and system geometry (including bulk, thin film, and superlattice structures). The PhD student will benefit from a vibrant international research environment, with short research stays at the CETHIL laboratory in Lyon and collaboration with experts in the field, including Professors Konstantinos Termentzidis and Yves Lansac, and Research Scientist Guillaume Nataf. The GREMAN laboratory is renowned for its expertise in both ferroelectric oxides and molecular dynamics simulations, and the project is supported by the ERC Starting Grant DYNAMHEAT and the ANR PRC SUPER. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team of physicists, materials scientists, engineers, and chemists, and will have opportunities for international collaboration. The position offers a fixed-term contract of 36 months, with a gross monthly salary of approximately €2,300. The doctoral training program at the University of Tours provides tailored support to develop transferable research and discipline-related skills. Applicants should hold a master's degree in physics, chemistry, or materials sciences, and demonstrate strong theoretical skills, motivation, and experience with simulations or relevant materials. Proficiency in English (minimum B2 level) is required, and prior research or internship experience is advantageous. To apply, candidates must submit a detailed CV, cover letter, and at least one reference to the three supervisors by March 20, 2026. The most promising candidates will be invited for an interview. For more information, see the supervisors' contact details and the official announcement.