Post-doc: Probing altermagnetic magnons in high-Tc Superconductors (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

This experimental project aims to explore a newly identified type of magnetic state: altermagnetism. This state, defined as a subclass of collinear antiferromagnetism, most notably exhibits a spin splitting of electronic bands, induced by specific magneto-structural symmetries. Recent theoretical predictions suggest that these same symmetries should also induce a chirality splitting of their magnon spectra. The Ruddlesden-Popper family of compounds has been identified as a fertile ground for promising altermagnetic candidates. Notably, this project will focus on a series of cuprate and nickelate compounds and aims at investigating potential connections between altermagnetism and unconventional superconductivity.

The main goal is to provide the first experimental confirmation of altermagnetism in the target compounds, followed by an investigation of how their altermagnetic character evolves with chemical substitution. To investigate these properties, we will use two complementary experimental techniques on large scale-facilities: neutron scattering and resonant inelastic X-ray scattering with circular dichroism (RIXS-CD)

The candidate will conduct experiments on both neutron and synchrotron facilities. He will be in charge of the redaction of proposals to access beamtime, sample preparations for the experiments (orientation, cutting, polishing, cleaving) and data analysis. He will also work in close collaboration with theorists. He will communicate the results to the scientific community (publications and conferences) and ensure knowledge transfer to all project collaborators through regular meetings.

Activity

Principal tasks:
- Sample preparation and macroscopic characterization
- Writing and proposal submission for neutron scattering and RIXS measurements at large scale facilities
- Conducting neutron scattering experiments
- Conducting RIXS measurements
- Writing of experimental reports and papers
- Presentation of the results at national and international conferences

Secondary tasks:
- Participate to project meetings and animate scientific discussions within the team
- Participate to the local seminars on related subjects and being involved in the lab scientific life

Your Profil

Skills

- PhD in condensed matter physics or related field
- Strong background in RIXS or neutron scattering
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to manage and drive a scientific project

Your Work Environment

This postdoctoral position will be based at Institut Néel (Grenoble, FRANCE), a condensed matter physics laboratory for fundamental research. It constitutes an exceptional research environment, which is important for the collaborative nature of this project.
This CNRS unit (UPR 2940) is under agreement with the University Grenoble Alpes and related to the CNRS Physique. The laboratory provides experimental platforms with state-of-the-art laboratory characterizations (magnetization, resistivity, powder and single-crystal X-ray diffractometers, Laue). Strategically located near the ESRF and ILL, this laboratory plays an active role in managing several “Collaborative Research Group” beamlines at these facilities.

The candidate will work within the “Materials, Radiations, Structure” research team which gathers more than twenty permanent researchers with various expertise in large scale facilities (neutrons, synchrotrons…), as well as numerous students and postdoctoral associates. He will benefit from a stimulating and dynamic environment, with various scientific seminars organized at the Institut Néel.

CNRS is a public, scientific and technological organisation.
The core mandate is to identify, carry out ou have carried out, either alone or with partners, all research that advances science or contributes to the country's economic, social, and cultural progress. Internationally recognised for the excellence of its scientific research, the CNRS is a reference in the world of research and development, as well as for the general public.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Between 3041,58 € and 3467,33 € gross monthly, according to 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