Four-year PhD in physics: Precise spin detection and manipulation of a single molecule magnet
EUCOR-Université de Strasbourg
Description de l'offre
Spin qubits can be realized in various platforms, including quantum dots, dopants in semiconductors, and single-molecule magnets (SMMs). Among them, the TbPc₂ molecule stands out as a prototypical SMM and forms the core of this proposed PhD thesis.
The project will investigate individual TbPc₂ molecules using electron spin resonance (ESR) within a low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM). The experimental setup involves depositing TbPc₂ molecules on double layers of insulating salt grown on Cu(100) and arranging them into two-dimensional magnetic arrays of controlled geometry via tip-assisted manipulation.
The primary goals are to develop and apply ESR-STM techniques for spin detection with millitesla precision, and to demonstrate reversible control of the molecular spin state through current-induced structural changes, simulating a single-molecule read/write operation. A further objective is to probe magnetic coupling between molecules and explore how local changes—structural or magnetic—affect neighboring spins.
This research lies at the intersection of spintronics and quantum information science and aims to advance our understanding of spin control and information encoding at the molecular scale. The PhD position is funded for four years under the EUCOR program.
Profil recherché
The applicant will lead experiments using a low-temperature STM to manipulate and magnetically characterize single SMMs. The applicant will optimize the ESR-STM technique to enable quantum magnetometry and precisely map the spin textures of the molecular network. The applicant must hold a recently obtained Master’s degree in Physics, specializing in materials science or a related field. Basic experience in surface physics and STM, preferably at low temperatures, is highly desirable. The ability to work independently while effectively collaborating within a multidisciplinary team is essential. Proficiency in written and oral communication in English is strongly desirable, with fluency in French being a valued asset.
A research position is available in Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) at the Institut de Physique et Chimie des Matériaux de Strasbourg (IPCMS), a joint research institute of the University of Strasbourg and the CNRS. The successful candidate will join the STM group of the IPCMS, which investigates the electronic, spin-related, and luminescence properties of nanostructures, single atoms and molecules, and atomic-scale contacts. Further information about the group is available at: https://www-ipcms.u-strasbg.fr/stmipcms/.
The research will be carried out using a low-temperature (1.4 K), ultra-high vacuum STM equipped with a 5 T perpendicular magnetic field, housed in a low-noise facility. The project is led by Dr. Laurent Limot (CNRS) and supported by two dedicated engineers. The team also benefits from in-house theoretical expertise and external scientific collaborations.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to conduct advanced experimental research in a highly supportive and well-equipped environment.