Missions

This postdoctoral position focuses on the thermodynamics of micro-mechanical resonators interacting with a thermal bath and an external energy source (e.g. an electromagnetic force, such as an electrostatic force, a light beam, or an electron beam). Within the framework of stochastic thermodynamics, the goal is to quantify energy exchanges (work, heat), understand the temperature evolution of the resonator, and interpret the role of information when the system is subject to feedback control. The project includes both theoretical and experimental components. This fundamental research aims to open new perspectives on various topics: optimizing the stability of micro-mechanical systems, controlling the energy consumption of logic gates, and developing efficient techniques for energy harvesting from vibrations.

Activités

Main tasks:
- Theoretical and experimental optimization of the resonator geometry
- Optimization of the real-time feedback system for resonator–external force coupling
- Measurement campaign using an ultra–low-noise optical detector
- Data analysis and interpretation within the framework of stochastic thermodynamics
- Modeling of experiments and calculation of theoretical maximum efficiencies
- Writing of reports and scientific articles
Secondary tasks:
- Presentations at international scientific conferences
- Participation in the supervision of internships and PhD theses

Compétences

- Strong theoretical background in stochastic thermodynamics, statistical physics, and Brownian motion
- Advanced experimental skills in ultra–low-noise measurements
- Proficiency in data analysis with Matlab or Python
- Practical knowledge in electronics, mechanics, optics, micro-positioning, and lasers
- Excellent command of scientific and technical English, both written and spoken
- Proven ability to work independently on research projects and to write scientific publications

Contexte de travail

This postdoctoral position is part of the ANR project Imagique, in collaboration with laboratories in Grenoble and Saclay. The successful candidate will be based at the Laboratoire de Physique, ENS de Lyon (approx. 180 staff members), under the direct supervision of Ludovic Bellon (Research Director), and will work in close collaboration with Caroline Crauste (Research Scientist) and Sergio Ciliberto (Emeritus Research Director). The candidate will have access to a fully operational experimental setup at the start of the project and will be expected to propose improvements to the system. Beyond the local team and partners of the ANR project, theoretical developments will be carried out in collaboration with international partners (C. Jarzynski, A. Imparato, J. Anders, S. Whitelam, etc.).

Contraintes et risques

Laser safety risks (Class 3R and 3B)