PhD student in theoretical physics (M/F) -- Constraints on the QCD axion from hadronic processes
New
- FTC PhD student / Offer for thesis
- 36 months
- BAC+5
Offer at a glance
The Unit
Laboratoire d'Annecy de Physique Théorique
Contract Type
FTC PhD student / Offer for thesis
Working hHours
Full Time
Workplace
74941 ANNECY
Contract Duration
36 months
Date of Hire
01/10/2026
Remuneration
2300 € gross monthly
Apply Application Deadline : 28 July 2026 23:59
Job Description
Thesis Subject
Title: Constraints on the QCD axion from hadronic processes: astrophysical and collider approaches.
Context: The QCD axion is a light pseudo-scalar particle, introduced to solve the strong CP problem — the unexplained absence of CP violation in the strong interaction — and one of the best-motivated dark-matter candidates. Its extremely weak coupling constant places extreme astrophysical environments at the center of its phenomenology.
Objectives: The thesis aims to establish robust constraints on the fundamental couplings of the QCD axion to hadronic matter, by exploiting three complementary contexts: the cooling of compact astrophysical objects, detection in Cherenkov experiments, and rare decays at colliders.
Methodology: The common theoretical tool is Chiral Perturbation Theory (ChPT), which allows axion-hadron couplings to be obtained unambiguously as functions of the fundamental parameters of the axion model under consideration.
Expected profile: The thesis work is theoretical and phenomenological in nature. We identify the following profile and skills as important for the project: a solid background in quantum field theory and high-energy physics, ideally with exposure to effective field theories, low-energy QCD, or beyond-Standard-Model particle physics; a strong interest in phenomenology and in the connection between theoretical calculations and experimental or astrophysical observables; excellent grades throughout the undergraduate and master's curriculum, in particular in courses related to quantum field theory, particle physics, and nuclear or astrophysics. The successful candidate should be proactive, autonomous, and tenacious, with good ability to work as part of a team in an interdisciplinary environment.
Your Work Environment
LAPTh is a CNRS theoretical physics laboratory with a broad range of expertise, spanning particle phenomenology and its interfaces, astroparticle physics, and mathematical physics. The position is oriented towards research in intensity-frontier phenomenology, including the search for light new particles. In these areas, the theory group interacts directly with the LHCb group at LAPP (the experimental physics laboratory adjacent to LAPTh) and with colleagues at CERN (located 40 km away).
Constraints and risks
N/A
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
2300 € gross monthly
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
| Offer reference | UMR5108-DIEGUA-005 |
|---|---|
| CN Section(s) / Research Area | Physical chemistry, theoretical and analytic |
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.
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