Three-year PhD position in plasmonics and photophysics: hot-carrier generation and heat dissipation in plasmonic metasurfaces Aix-Marseille Université in France

This fully funded three-year PhD position at Aix-Marseille Université offers an exciting opportunity to investigate hot-carrier generation and heat dissipation in plasmonic metasurfaces. The project is situated at the intersection of nanophotonics, heat transport, and energy applications, focusing on the fundamental challenge of controlling energy partitioning between hot-carrier generation and thermal dissipation in plasmonic nanostructures. By leveraging two-dimensional plasmonic metasurfaces, the research aims to optimize designs for site-selective hot-carrier generation with minimal heating, exploring both purely plasmonic and hybrid metal–semiconductor architectures to tailor electronic and thermal properties.

The successful candidate will join the 'Surface Nanostructuring for Energy' group, supervised by Dr. Artur Movsesyan and Dr. Beniamino Sciacca, and collaborate closely with CINaM, IM2NP, and Institut Fresnel. The project combines numerical modeling and experimental nanophotonics, including metasurface design, nanofabrication, optical characterization, and photothermal microscopy. Steady-state photothermal measurements and spatially resolved thermal mapping will be used to probe local temperature profiles, supported by electromagnetic and thermal modeling to guide metasurface design and describe energy dissipation pathways.

The research environment is highly interdisciplinary and international, offering access to state-of-the-art nanofabrication facilities, advanced optical characterization tools, and high-performance computational resources at the Centre de Calcul Intensif d’Aix-Marseille. The candidate will benefit from strong national and international collaborations, opportunities for short research stays, training in scientific communication and publishing, and the chance to present their work at scientific conferences, preparing them for both academic and industrial research careers.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in physics, applied physics, materials science, nanotechnology, or a related field, with a strong background in optics, photonics, electromagnetism, or solid-state physics. Hands-on laboratory experience is required, and experience with nanofabrication/microfabrication and optical characterization techniques (such as spectroscopy or microscopy) is highly desirable. Skills in numerical simulations (FEM or FDTD) and excellent English communication are expected. Analytical and critical thinking, motivation, and flexibility are valued soft skills.

The formal application must include a CV, transcripts for both Bachelor and Master studies, a summary of previous research experience, and two letters of recommendation. Applications should be sent to [email protected] or submitted via the online portal. The deadline for applications is April 30, 2026, and the envisaged start date is September 1, 2026. The Euraxess Center at Aix-Marseille Université provides support for international candidates regarding visas, insurance, accommodation, and other practical matters.