Université Grenoble Alpes
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PhD Position: Cold Atoms for Optical Reservoir Computing Université Grenoble Alpes in France
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Sep 7, 2026
Country
France
University
Université Grenoble Alpes
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About this position
PhD opportunity in theoretical physics at Université Grenoble Alpes / LPMMC Laboratory, Grenoble, France. The project, Cold atoms for optical reservoir computing, sits at the intersection of quantum optics, cold-atom physics, and machine learning-inspired computing. It investigates how ensembles of immobile two-level atoms can function as a physical reservoir for optical reservoir computing, with applications ranging from classical prediction tasks to quantum-information-inspired tasks.
The thesis focuses on developing a realistic three-dimensional theoretical model of cold atoms interacting via the electromagnetic field, with proper treatment of light polarization and intermediate saturation dynamics. The work will combine analytical theory and scientific programming to build numerical simulations of small atomic ensembles (around ten atoms) and then explore larger and more statistical regimes. Topics include input/output encoding via modulated light, nonlinear response, reservoir performance, optimal atomic configurations, random reservoirs, and the possible thermodynamic-limit behavior of macroscopic ensembles.
This PhD is particularly relevant for candidates interested in quantum optics, quantum information, cold atoms, and theoretical and computational physics. The project also connects to modern ideas in optical neural networks and hybrid quantum-classical information processing, where untrained physical systems perform computation through their intrinsic dynamics.
Funding: The position is offered under the Horizon Europe COFUND QuanG2 programme and is described as a fully funded three-year PhD with dedicated support for research and training. The call is coordinated by Université Grenoble Alpes within the Grenoble quantum research ecosystem.
Eligibility highlights: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent by the deadline, must not already hold a doctoral degree, and must satisfy the MSCA mobility rule (no more than 12 months in France during the 36 months before the deadline). There are no nationality or age restrictions, and applicants must not be current employees of the host laboratory.
Application window: Applications are due on 7 September 2026 at 12:00 PM (Paris time). The selection process includes an eligibility check, pre-selection in mid-October 2026, online interviews at the end of October, and in-person interviews in Grenoble in early December 2026.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification by the application deadline and must not already hold a doctoral degree. Applicants must comply with the MSCA mobility rule, meaning they must not have resided or carried out their main activity in France for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately preceding the deadline. Applicants must not be current employees of the host laboratory. Required and preferred skills include knowledge of theoretical physics, some experience in scientific programming, basics of quantum optics, quantum information, and cold-atom physics, plus communication skills and the ability to work in a team. There are no nationality or age restrictions.
How to apply
Apply through the QuanG2 online application platform using the provided application form. Submit your application by 7 September 2026 at 12:00 PM Paris time. Eligible candidates will be shortlisted for online interviews, followed by in-person interviews in Grenoble.
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