Missions

By simply sliding one 2D crystal atop another, the electronic properties of the resulting heterostructure can change dramatically. Remarkably, a large-bandgap insulator can become ferroelectric, solely due to this relative twist—without any additional modification. This phenomenon gives rise to out-of-plane ferroelectric domains.
The goal of this postdoctoral position is to optically detect, track, and ultimately control the ferroelectric state in such materials. You will play a central role in imaging ferroelectric domains in a new class of 2D ferroelectrics using state-of-the-art cryogenic micro-spectroscopy techniques. This work involves understanding the influence of the dielectric environment on interlayer excitons and unraveling the mechanisms governing domain dynamics, such as flipping and domain wall propagation—central to the emerging physics of sliding ferroelectricity.
The ultimate ambition is to develop a strategy to optically switch these domains, laying the groundwork for novel optoelectronic devices. Such a system could serve as a non-linear optical activation function in photonic neuromorphic computing, where no fully compatible component currently exists.

Activités

• Lead independent research on the optical properties of 2D ferroelectric materials, including comprehensive literature reviews, experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Design, develop, and implement advanced experiments to monitor and control ferroelectricity using optical techniques, cryogenic spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM).
• Drive the fabrication and optimization of novel 2D heterostructure devices in our state-of-the-art cryogenic optics laboratory and cleanroom facilities.
• Spearhead innovation toward emerging applications in 2D quantum photonics and light-based neuromorphic computing.
• Mentor and guide PhD students and interns, fostering a collaborative research environment.
• Publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
• Actively collaborate with consortium partners and contribute to project deliverables and reporting.

Compétences

• PhD degree (or equivalent) in physics, photonics, condensed matter physics, materials science, or a closely related field.
• Strong background in experimental optics, spectroscopy, or nanophotonics.
• Demonstrated track record of research excellence through publications and/or conference presentations.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific programming (Python or similar).
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken); French language skills are advantageous but not required.

Contexte de travail

The 2D+ Research Group at CRHEA, located on the French Riviera near Nice, France, is seeking an exceptional Postdoctoral Researcher to join our team working at the forefront of nanophotonics and 2D materials research. We offer a unique opportunity to lead cutting-edge investigations into emerging phenomena such as sliding ferroelectricity, ultra-low-threshold nonlinear photonics, and exciton engineering. This position is part of the European-funded 2DFERROPLEX consortium, bringing together leading experts in the field.
Our state-of-the-art cryo-optics lab covers 100m² and includes cutting-edge tools such as a fully functional cryostat for micro-photoluminescence, reflection spectroscopy, and optoelectrical measurements. We also have a fully equipped FabLab dedicated to building custom van der Waals heterostructures, which are essential for the assembly of quantum devices. These advanced facilities will enable the intern to contribute to groundbreaking experimental research directly.

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.