Missions

The primary goal of the position is to contribute to the LUMINESS project, which aims to understand and exploit chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) and magneto-chiral anisotropy (MChA) phenomena. The researcher will focus on the synthesis and functionalization of chiral molecules and complexes for molecular electronics. These systems are designed to probe and demonstrate spin-selective transport phenomena and optical-magnetic interactions at the molecular scale. Within the framework of this highly interdisciplinary project, the recruited scientist will aim to (1) create and characterize chiral ligands and their metal complexes, (2) prepare hybrid systems for surface-based investigations of spin-related effects, and (3) produce crystals for magneto-chiral dichroism studies. Ultimately, this work contributes to the broader goals of LUMINESS: to develop materials and methodologies enabling new paradigms in spintronics, optoelectronics, and molecular magnetism by leveraging the unique interplay between chirality and spin/orbital degrees of freedom.

Activités

The main responsibilities include the design and synthesis of multifunctional chiral ligands capable of anchoring enantiopure metal complexes to metallic substrates. This involves advanced organic synthesis, purification, and structural characterization techniques (NMR, MS, IR, etc.). Surface functionalization studies will be carried out to evaluate the grafting efficiency and stability of these complexes on conductive substrates, employing surface-sensitive techniques such as PM-IRRAS, ToF-SIMS, or AFM. The role also encompasses the crystallization of the synthesized complexes, which will be used for magneto-chiral optical characterization. Physicochemical characterization of the hybrid materials and crystal structures will be performed using techniques such as X-ray diffraction, magnetic susceptibility, and spectroscopy. The researcher is expected to participate actively in the interpretation of results, preparation of scientific reports, manuscripts for publication, and oral presentations at national and international conferences. Collaboration across the consortium, particularly with spectroscopy and theory teams, is an integral part of the daily work.

Compétences

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in chemistry with demonstrated expertise in organic synthesis, coordination chemistry, and molecular materials. Experience in chiral molecule synthesis, crystallization of metal complexes, or surface chemistry is highly desirable. Familiarity with structural characterization techniques (X-ray crystallography, NMR, mass spectrometry) and interest or experience in interdisciplinary work involving magnetism, optics, or materials science will be considered assets. The successful applicant should demonstrate autonomy, scientific rigor, and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. Strong communication skills in English (spoken and written) are required for collaborative research, dissemination of findings, and participation in project meetings. A proactive attitude toward learning complementary techniques and collaborating with physicists and theorists is encouraged. This position is particularly suitable for candidates aiming to deepen their expertise at the interface of chemistry and physics within a high-level international consortium.

Contexte de travail

Created in 1995, the Bordeaux Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry (ICMCB) focuses its research on Solid State Chemistry, Materials Science and Chemistry and Process: designing, preparing, shaping and characterizing materials in order to discover, control and optimize specific functions. The ICMCB carries out fundamental research on model materials and/or materials with potential applications.
The ICMCB is a UMR with an average of 280 agents (permanent and non-permanent), with 3 tutelles, hosted by the CNRS and in total ZRR. The position is located in a sector covered by the Protection of Scientific and Technical Potential (PSTP), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that the arrival of the agent be authorized by the competent authority of MESR.

Le poste se situe dans un secteur relevant de la protection du potentiel scientifique et technique (PPST), et nécessite donc, conformément à la réglementation, que votre arrivée soit autorisée par l'autorité compétente du MESR.

Contraintes et risques

The candidate will be embedded in a highly collaborative and multi-institutional setting, requiring regular coordination with external partners, travel for sample transfers, and participation in consortium meetings or secondments. The position may involve strict deadlines for project deliverables and publications, requiring time management and flexibility. Certain aspects of the project—particularly functionalization of surfaces and surface-sensitive spectroscopy—demand precise experimental control and access to specific instruments, which may be subject to availability or scheduling constraints. The researcher must navigate complex, iterative workflows involving synthesis, surface engineering, and magneto-optical testing. Interdisciplinary communication will be critical, as experimental data must feed into theoretical modeling and vice versa. As a result, fluency in technical discussions beyond the immediate field of expertise will be required. Moreover, due to the potential for intellectual property development, confidentiality regarding unpublished results may be necessary in coordination with CNRS innovation services.