Postdoctoral researcher in advanced microscopy (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

What is the smallest thing we can see on the surface of water?
The surface of water is the prevalent interface on our planet. Yet, even the most advanced microscopy techniques does not provide nanoscale images of its surface. Yes, reciprocal-space methods such as X-Ray or neutron scattering & reflectivity can provide an indirect structural information, but it is an averaged one.

This project aims to develop a novel microscopy approach capable of directly imaging the surface of water with nanometric resolution. We will design and construct an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) integrated within a Langmuir trough, permitting high-resolution and real-time characterization of films directly on liquid surfaces.

Activity

We will design and assemble an Atomic Force Microscope to image the surface of water including a fast XYZ scanner, optical beam deflection system, photothermal excitation, and electronics. AFM integration within a Langmuir trough will be carried out in collaboration with the INSP (Paris, Sorbonne).

In this position, you will go beyond being a typical AFM user using a commercial microscope. Instead, you will contribute to advancing AFM and microscopy by designing and developing an instrument capable of observing phenomena that are currently impossible to visualize.

Your Profil

Skills

Motivated and ambitious candidates are encouraged to apply. We require:
o Experience in Scanning Probe Microscopy
o A Master & PhD degree in physics, engineering, or biophysics
o A high level of interest in instrumentation, protocols & techniques development
o Relevant scientific experience supported by publication record
o Excellent English communication skills
Experience in Optics, Electronics (especially, Lock-In Amplifiers, Phase-Locked Loops, PID controllers, Oscilloscopes, Function generators & Multimeters). Experience with FreeCAD or equivalent (i.e. Solidworks). Computational skills (i.e. Labview, Python, Matlab).

Your Work Environment

CBS is a scientific Institute dedicated to research at the forefront of biophysics and structural biology. It offers cutting-edge facilities in these fields. The research of our group is focused on the development and use of correlative advanced microscopies (AFM with single molecule fluorescence microscopy and/or X-Ray microscopies and spectroscopies) to decipher the molecular mechanisms associated to the organization and remodeling of biological and soft matter interfaces. The team has a longstanding record in the training of young apprentices and the activity of mentoring early career researchers is part of the position. Dr. Luca Costa has already designed and developed several Atomic Force Microscopes for diverse applications, spanning soft matter and coupled to fluorescence for Bio-imaging to integration with synchrotron beamlines for correlative X-Ray and AFM experiments.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

from 3071€ gross per month, depending on experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions