(M/F) Postdoctoral Position: Dielectric Metasurfaces for Single-Photon Sources

Job Description

Missions

• Deep-learning inverse design for multi-scale optimization (meta-atom + metasurface)
• Experimental validation using state-of-the-art nano-positioning (LPCNO collaboration)
• The CEMES–LAAS synergy: quantum nano-optics + numerical modeling & cleanroom fabrication

Activity

The postdoctoral fellow will lead the integration of numerical and experimental workflows, focusing on:
1. Advanced numerical framework
Extend the autodiff capable torchGDM toolkit (developed at LAAS) to model quantum emitters coupled to periodic metasurfaces supporting BIC modes (array-scanning technique, Fig. 1).
Develop physics-informed neural networks to accelerate simulations and inverse design.
2. Deep-learning inverse design
Train multi-objective neural networks to optimize both meta-atom geometries and collective metasurface responses (e.g. simultaneous near-field enhancement and directional emission).
Use transfer learning to fine-tune the models on experimental data.
3. Experimental validation & iterative refinement
Characterize the optimized metasurfaces on CEMES optical benches (4K cryostat, time-resolved photoluminescence mapping, HBT single-photon statistics), with precisely positioned quantum emitters (LPCNO, Q-META ANR project).
Run iterative cycles: design → fabrication (LAAS cleanroom) → characterization → model refinement.
4. Mentorship & collaboration
Co-supervise PhD students (Q-META, SPINOSA and AIM ANR projects) on numerical and experimental tasks.

Your Profil

Skills

Requirements
• PhD in physics, nanophotonics, quantum optics or a related field.
• Strong background in at least two of:
◦ Numerical modeling of nanostructures (FDTD, FEM, GDM/CDA or similar).
◦ Deep learning for inverse design or computational nanophotonics.
◦ Experimental nano-optics (confocal microscopy, single-photon characterization).
• Programming: Python (PyTorch/TensorFlow, NumPy, SciPy), MATLAB or equivalent.
• Publication record demonstrating high-impact research.
• Language: fluent English (French is a plus, not required).

Your Work Environment

Single-photon sources generate and transmit indistinguishable photons — the building blocks of quantum information — and are essential for quantum communications. Nano-optics paves the way towards compact, integrated devices that trap, store, release and control single-photon emission: its direction, polarization and spectral content.
Individual nanoantennas already control the photodynamics of quantum emitters, but their limited degrees of freedom have led to a performance plateau. Q-META will break this plateau: we will design, fabricate and characterize high-index dielectric metasurfaces whose AI-optimized periodic patterns host high-Q lattice modes — bound states in the continuum — to gain unprecedented control over accurately positioned quantum emitters.
The project builds on the Q-META ANR initiative and leverages:
• Deep-learning inverse design for multi-scale optimization (meta-atom + metasurface)
• Experimental validation using state-of-the-art nano-positioning (LPCNO collaboration)
• The CEMES–LAAS synergy: quantum nano-optics + numerical modeling & cleanroom fabrication

Key references from the team
• Cuche et al., Nanoscale 2023 (QE positioning via AFM nanoxerography).
• Wiecha et al., ACS Photonics 2022 (deep learning for aperiodic metasurfaces).
• Chai et al., ACS Photonics 2023 (BIC modes in metasurfaces).
Why join Q-META?
• Cutting-edge research at the intersection of quantum optics, nanophotonics and AI.
• World-class facilities: CALMIP GPU supercomputer, state-of-the-art optics lab, LAAS cleanroom.
• Collaborative environment across CEMES, LAAS and LPCNO.
• Mentorship and leadership opportunities in a growing field.
• Toulouse's vibrant quantum and AI ecosystem (QuET31, C'NANO, GDR Quantum Technologies, ANITI, ...)

The postdoc will be taking place 50/50 between LAAS and CEMES labs at Toulouse (9 + 9 months)

Constraints and risks

...

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

3 041,58 € to 3 467,33 € net/month, depending on 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

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