PhD Position in Electron Ptychography of Quantum Dot Emitters Université Grenoble Alpes in France

This PhD project at Institut Néel, Université Grenoble Alpes, focuses on electron ptychography of quantum dot emitters in nitride semiconductors. The research targets wurtzite AlGaN-based quantum materials, including quantum dots or quantum wells, potentially embedded in a p-n junction, with the goal of reconstructing their structure and electrostatic properties in three dimensions.

The project combines advanced experimental physics, transmission electron microscopy, and computational analysis. The doctoral researcher will prepare TEM samples of quantum nitride materials using polishing, etching, or focused ion beam (FIB) methods, develop robust preparation protocols, and may later explore electrical contacting for in-situ biasing. Measurements will be carried out on a state-of-the-art probe-corrected TEM at Institut Néel equipped with a very fast camera, enabling 4D-STEM data acquisition. The data will then be analyzed using both Center-of-Mass methods and iterative electron ptychography, with possible adaptation of existing scripts and algorithms and comparison to numerical simulations.

Scientifically, the project addresses how the exact atomic arrangement in nitride quantum structures determines their electro-optical behavior. By reconstructing 3D information well beyond conventional TEM projections, the PhD aims to probe strain fields, internal electric fields, charge distributions, atomic positions, and chemical species in and around the quantum object. The work also includes comparison with finite element next nano simulations for strain and electrical results, linking experiment and theory.

This position is well suited to candidates with an interest in solid-state physics, experimental microscopy, and semiconductor optoelectronics. Programming in Python, mathematics, and simulation experience are advantageous. The host program, QuanG2, is part of a Horizon Europe COFUND doctoral call coordinated by Université Grenoble Alpes and offers a fully funded three-year PhD in the Grenoble quantum research ecosystem.

Eligibility highlights: applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in Physics, must not already hold a doctorate, and must satisfy the MSCA mobility rule for France. There are no nationality or age restrictions.

Application deadline: 7 September 2026 at 12:00 PM (Paris time). Applications must be submitted through the QuanG2 online platform. The selection process includes eligibility screening, pre-selection, online interviews in late October 2026, and in-person interviews in Grenoble in early December 2026.