Missions

This position, for which Aix-Marseille University will be the employer, involves the development of a platform for studying ultra-cold plasmas. The aim is to trap and cool a cloud of calcium atoms in a magneto-optical trap, then photo-ionize it and study the dynamics of the ions and atoms. This project is therefore at the interface between quantum physics and plasma physics. The short-term objective is to demonstrate the possibility of controlling the initial state of the plasma by shaping the photoionization light, and the medium-term objective is to confine and cool the plasma with lasers.

Activities

- take part in the construction of the experiment (vacuum chamber, laser system, experiment control)
- design the photoionization light shaping device using a micro-mirror array
- take part in the collection and analysis of experimental data

Skills

- PhD in physics, ideally with experience in laser cooling of atoms or ions, or alternatively experience in optics, lasers, or ultra-high vacuum.
- Implementation of a laser chain (acousto-optic modulators, polarization-maintaining optical fibers, stabilization on an atomic reference)
- Fluorescence or absorption imaging techniques
- Data processing using Python or MATLAB
- Teamwork, occasional supervision of interns

Work Context

The PIIM laboratory brings together physicists and physicochemists who study diluted media—such as gases, plasmas, and beams of ions, atoms, and/or molecules—as well as their interactions with matter and light. The successful candidate will work within the CIML (Ion Confinement and Laser Manipulation) research team, which has extensive expertise in the field of radiofrequency ion trapping and optical frequency metrology. The team currently comprises one researcher, one professor, two associate professors, two post-docs and three doctoral students.

The CIML team is developing a new line of research on ultra-cold plasmas, which is the focus of this position. A professor, a doctoral student, and research engineers are working on this new project. This project is fully funded for the duration of the postdoctoral fellowship, including participation to international conferences.

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.

Constraints and risks

- screen work
- laser risk
- risk associated with ionizing radiation