26 Jan 2026
Job Information
- Organisation/Company
Université Jean Monnet Saint Etienne- Research Field
Physics- Researcher Profile
First Stage Researcher (R1)- Positions
PhD Positions- Application Deadline
15 Feb 2026 - 12:00 (Europe/Paris)- Country
France- Type of Contract
Temporary- Job Status
Full-time- Offer Starting Date
1 Sep 2026- Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?
Not funded by a EU programme- Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?
No
Offer Description
Recent advances in ultrafast laser technology are propelling the development of highly efficient material processing techniques that combine high optical quality with utmost precision through direct laser writing. This capability, responding to challenges in nanofabrication, could unlock new physical and chemical processes by enabling the structuring of materials at the nanoscale, well beyond the classical diffraction limit. These novel functionalities can either enhance inherent surface properties—such as optical performance, wettability, or biological surface interactions—or give rise to entirely new features engineered down to the quantum scale. In this framework, we propose a Ph.D. thesis aimed at developing a novel and innovative laser processing methodology capable of overcoming fundamental physical limitations such as the optical diffraction limit and uncontrolled thermal diffusion phenomena, while resulting in surface features at optical quality. Specifically, we introduce a hybrid nanostructuring approach based on ultrashort-pulse laser irradiation, inspired by the STED (Stimulated Emission Depletion) microscopy technique, extending its principle of super-resolved spatial confinement to the domain of ultrafast laser–matter interaction. The method involves coupling the spatial selectivity of color center generation and annealing by laser beams with chemical etching , enabling nanoscale structuring with controlled aspect ratios for the fabrication of optical metasurfaces. This synergy will introduce a new degree of freedom in defining both the dimensions and morphology of laser-inscribed structures, reaching unprecedented resolution.
Where to apply
vincenzo.demichele@univ-st-etienne.fr
Requirements
- Research Field
- Physics
- Education Level
- Master Degree or equivalent
Specific Requirements
We are looking for candidates who meet the following criteria:
• MSc degree or equivalent in applied/experimental physics and/or related areas
• Analytic and experimental skills proven by MSc-work or work experience
• Background in optics, nonlinear optics, material science and/or solid state physics
• Ability to develop a software infrastructure for data acquisition and processing
• Motivation and strong interest in laser-matter interaction and laser material processing
• Knowledge of the English language (oral and writing) and communications skills
The following additions would be a great asset:
• Expertise in glasses, defects and in ultrafast spectroscopy
• Knowledge of laser physics and optical alignments
• Programming experience
- Languages
- ENGLISH
- Level
- Good
Internal Application form(s) needed
PhD_EDSIS2026_De Michele_rs.pdf
English
(148.64 KB - PDF)
Download
Additional Information
Selection process
Applicants should send the following documents directly to Dr. Vincenzo De Michele (vincenzo.demichele@univ-st-etienene.fr ):
• A complete CV;
• A cover letter;
• A copy of a valid ID document (ID card, passport…)
• Recommendation letters
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available
- 1
- Company/Institute
- Laboratoire Hubert Curien (Université Jean Monnet)
- Country
- France
- Geofield
Contact
- State/Province
France- City
Saint Etienne- Website
https://laboratoirehubertcurien.univ-st-etienne.fr/en/teams/laser-matter-interaction.html- Street
Bât. F - 18 Rue du Professeur Benoît Lauras- Postal Code
42000
vincenzo.demichele@univ-st-etienne.fr
STATUS: EXPIRED
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