Université Grenoble Alpes
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PhD Position: Structural studies of superconductor–semiconductor interfaces Institut Néel, Université Grenoble Alpes in France
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Analytical Chemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Sep 7, 2026
Country
France
University
Université Grenoble Alpes

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About this position
This PhD project is hosted at Institut Néel in Grenoble and is part of the QuanG2 PhD Call, coordinated by Université Grenoble Alpes within the Horizon Europe COFUND framework. The position is focused on the structural and chemical study of superconductor–semiconductor interfaces, specifically InAs/Sn nanostructures developed for tunable Josephson junctions and transmon qubits in quantum devices.
The research addresses a major challenge in quantum technology: improving coherence times by understanding and reducing defects at interfaces and in junction materials. The thesis will investigate how Sn grows on InAs and related III-V semiconductors, with attention to surface preparation, growth conditions, strain distribution, and defect minimization. The project combines advanced experimental and analytical techniques including high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM), geometric phase analysis (GPA), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), 4D-STEM, electron ptychography, and growth modelling. Complementary X-ray diffraction experiments will be carried out at PHELIQS, and electrical transport measurements will be performed in collaboration with international partners in the UK.
The goal is to build a detailed understanding of the atomic and chemical structure of Sn/InAs interfaces and connect these properties to macroscopic transport behaviour. The expected outcomes include insight into the growth mechanisms of Sn on III-V semiconductors, identification of optimal growth conditions to reduce defects, and improved strain control for more stable, higher-performance quantum devices.
This is a fully funded three-year PhD position starting on 1 February 2027. The call is open to candidates with a Master’s degree or equivalent in Physics (or a closely related field) who meet the MSCA mobility rule and have not already obtained a doctoral degree. There are no nationality or age restrictions. Applicants should have a background in semiconductor and solid-state physics, strong data-analysis and problem-solving skills, and good English scientific writing and communication abilities.
Applications must be submitted online through the QuanG2 application platform by 7 September 2026 at 12:00 PM (Paris time). The selection process includes eligibility screening, pre-selection in mid-October 2026, online interviews at the end of October 2026, 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 in Physics by the application deadline and must not already hold a doctoral degree. Applicants must satisfy 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 skills include semiconductor and solid-state physics, data analysis and problem solving, and English speaking and scientific writing.
How to apply
Apply through the QuanG2 online application platform using the official application form. Submit the application by 7 September 2026 at 12:00 PM Paris time. Eligible candidates will be shortlisted for online and then in-person interviews in Grenoble.
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