Missions

When two 2D crystals are stacked with a small twist, the resulting heterostructure can exhibit remarkable properties. Notably, a non-ferroelectric insulator can become ferroelectric solely due to interlayer sliding—without chemical modification. This gives rise to nanoscale out-of-plane ferroelectric domains whose optical signatures remain largely unexplored.
The primary goal of this postdoctoral position is to develop and refine optical methods to detect, image, and analyze ferroelectric domains in 2D ferroelectric heterostructures. You will employ advanced cryogenic micro-spectroscopy, and reflection contrast imaging to visualize domain structures and their dynamics in real time.
This work will shed light on the interplay between ferroelectric order, interlayer excitons, and dielectric environment, revealing how local optical responses correlate with polarization states. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms will pave the way for all-optical approaches to probe and potentially manipulate ferroelectricity in 2D materials.
What we offer
• A competitive postdoctoral salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• The opportunity to work in a dynamic, internationally recognized research group with access to world-class facilities.
• A vibrant research environment on the French Riviera, offering an exceptional quality of life and proximity to leading research institutions.
• Extensive opportunities for professional development, networking, and career advancement.
• The chance to present your research at international conferences and publish in leading scientific journals.
• Close collaboration with top researchers in the 2D materials community across the 2DFERROPLEX consortium (Barcelona, Manchester, Munich, Strasbourg, Prague).

Activities

• Lead experimental efforts to detect and characterize ferroelectric domains using optical techniques, including reflection and photoluminescence.
• Design and implement optical setups for spatially resolved and time-resolved measurements of ferroelectric behavior.
• Collaborate with theorists and materials scientists to correlate optical observables with atomic-scale domain configurations and switching mechanisms.
• Maintain and optimize cryogenic optical instruments and participate in the fabrication of high-quality 2D heterostructures.
• Contribute to publications, mentoring, and consortium collaborations as in the original offer.

Skills

• 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.

Work Context

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.
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.

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.