Description of the thesis topic

Proteins perform the essential functions of living organisms, from oxygen transport to photosynthesis. Their intricate nano-structure dictates this function. Modifications to this structure can have devastating consequences, as in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. This highlights the need for techniques that can probe protein nano-structure. Nevertheless, existing technics face limitations when operated in a realistic environment in realistic conditions.
Vibrational spectroscopy in the Terahertz (THz) range emerges as a promising alternative. Analogously to musical instruments producing sounds of frequencies dependent on their size; the frequency of vibrations depends on the size of the object supporting it, and the THz range corresponds actually to nanometric sizes.
In this PhD work, the candidate will first design, and implement electromagnetic concentrator in the Terahertz range to study biological samples from the amino acids to the protein microcrystals, a form used in their structural studies.
Specifically, THz spectroscopy probe matter non-invasivally, making it a valuable tool for the identification of material, especially in biological samples. THz waves can be used to study the structure and dynamics of biological molecules, and can also detect various types of biological cells and tissues. However, the study of biological samples in their natural state is limited by their small size. Most biological objects such as proteins, DNA strands, viral capsids, cells, or bacteria are much smaller than THz wavelengths. This size mismatch prevents the use of propagative techniques to analyze a single object. Our group is developing novel THz devices based on a metallic hollow waveguide to overcome this limitation that has already shown promising results. With a prestigious ERC Consolidator Grant, we are taking this research to the next level by developing new techniques for analyzing macromolecules like proteins in the THz range. TUSCaNy project aim at exploring the hidden world of biological molecules with dedicated TeraHertz technology.
The TeraHertz range, located between optics and electronics, the Institute of Electronics, Microelectronics, and Nanotechnologies (IEMN) is conducting research in the TeraHertz range using state-of-the-art TeraHertz-time-domain spectrometry (THz-TDS) to analyze solid samples (semiconductors, insulators), liquids (aqueous solutions, solvents), and gases. The team aims to develop new tools and methodology to enable THz wave investigation of the structures and functions of biological molecules such as proteins and DNA.
Missions: Your main mission will be to design and optimize the performance of the state-of-the-art device using advanced numerical methods, such as FDTD. You will then utilize our cutting-edge micro and nano fabrication facilities to fabricate the device using the latest generation equipment. Once fabricated, you will validate the electromagnetic performances of the device in terms of field localization and coupling. Finally, you will operate the device in broadband THz spectroscopy with various macromolecular samples under different conditions, ranging from cryogenic temperatures in a dedicated cryostat to microfluidic systems. Your ultimate goal will be to obtain high-quality data that can be used to better understand the structures and functions of biological molecules.

Work Context

The Institut des Nanotechnologies de Lyon (INL) aims to develop multidisciplinary technological research in the field of micro and nanotechnologies and their applications. The research carried out ranges from materials to systems. The laboratory is supported by Lyon's NanoLyon technology platform.
The areas of application cover major economic sectors: the semiconductor industry, information technologies, life and health technologies, energy and the environment.
The laboratory is multi-site, with locations on the Ecully and Lyon-Tech La Doua campuses. It employs around 200 people, including 121 permanent staff. The INL is a major player in the Research and Teaching Cluster.
This position is located in an innovative environment, at the cutting edge of future technologies, in strategic application sectors.
Our team of experienced researchers at the Lyon Institute of Technology in Lyon, France, offers a dynamic environment for conducting cutting-edge research in photonics. As a member of the I-Lum team, you will have access to fully equipped experimental facilities (state-of-the-art THz time-domain spectrometer, state-of-the-art camera). You'll work with our team to design and carry out innovative THz biophotonics experiments as part of an ambitious European ERC project.

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.