PhD Position (M/F) in Bridging Ultrafast and Environmental Electron Microscopy to Resolve Charge-Lattice Dynamics

Job Description

Thesis Subject

The primary goal of this thesis is to develop innovative methodology that bridges Ultrafast Transmission Electron Microscopy (UTEM) and environmental TEM using in situ gas-heating holders. Once realized, this cutting-edge experimental method will provide unprecedented access to nanoscale chemical dynamics in energy materials, specifically targeting processes like photocatalytic hydrogen production or CO2 conversion.

Energy conversion within nanoscale chemical systems is a highly dynamic cascade of events at very different time scales. A reaction begins with ultrafast charge transfer (picoseconds), evolves through transient redox events (microseconds to milliseconds), and ultimately results in the macroscopic atomic restructuring of the material (minutes to hours).

The core motivation of this project is to bridge these well-separated time scales by triggering dynamic reactions using photons and chemical potential gradients. By doing so, we aim to uncover the coupled mechanisms of charge and lattice dynamics. Using reducible oxides (such as TiO2 and CeO2) and metal–oxide interfaces as model systems, we will investigate how the fundamental movement of an electron directly drives physical distortion and the eventual restructuring of the atomic lattice. The different stages of the project are described below.

1. Resolve ultrafast charge-lattice coupling (ps to μs): Investigate photoinduced charge transfer at metal-oxide interfaces using nanosecond laser pulses and stroboscopic imaging and diffraction method to directly measure transient lattice distortions and phonon excitations.

2. Capture intermediate transient redox events (μs to ms): Use high speed electron imaging and spectroscopy to map short-lived phenomena such as transient oxygen vacancy ordering, valence state shifts, and chemical strain at the sub-nanometer scale.

3. Monitor the kinetic and the intermediate states of the structural transformation (ms to hours): Utilize in situ gas-heating TEM under reactive environments (H2, CO2, O2) to track structural modifications like surface reconstructions, phase transitions, and the formation of Magnéli phases from reducible oxides.

Your Work Environment

Institutional and Scientific Framework
The thesis work will take place at the Institute of Physics and Chemistry of Materials of Strasbourg (IPCMS, UMR 7504), an excellent joint research unit under the co-supervision of the CNRS and the University of Strasbourg. The future PhD student will be affiliated with the Doctoral School [ED 182 Physics and Engineering Sciences], in the specialty of Physics & Materials Science
Team and Equipment
The candidate will join a dynamic team and benefit from a highly stimulating work environment, under the joint supervision of Prof. Aram Yoon and Prof. Ovidiu Ersen. This project is at the heart of rich collaborations within the joint research unit. On the technical side, the project relies on state-of-the-art equipment of international caliber, notably the Grand ARM2 microscope for in situ environmental studies and the JEOL 2100 UTEM for ultrafast imaging.
Candidate Profile
To successfully integrate into this highly technical environment, the candidate must possess a solid academic background in physics, materials science, or physical chemistry. Practical experience in electron microscopy and advanced materials characterization is considered a major asset. Furthermore, a strong proficiency in English (minimum CEFR level B2/C1) is required to navigate the international scientific environment, participate in conferences, and draft high-impact publications.
Working Conditions and Benefits
The IPCMS is located on the Cronenbourg Campus, in a green setting that is highly accessible by public transport (tram and bus). By joining our laboratory, the candidate will benefit from numerous advantages linked to the contract:
Access to an on-site administrative restaurant with subsidized rates.
Partial reimbursement (75%) of public transportation subscriptions.
Access to social, cultural, and sports benefits offered by the works council (CAES du CNRS).
The possibility of occasional teleworking (for data analysis or writing tasks), in strict compliance with the protocol established by the laboratory.
Annual leave and RTT (working time reduction) days amounting to 44 days.

Constraints and risks

The thesis will be affiliated with the Doctoral School [ED182] of the University of Strasbourg. As the experimental work involves the use of state-of-the-art electron microscopes, class 4 pulsed lasers, and reactive gases (H₂, CO₂, O₂), the candidate must complete the institute's mandatory safety training and strictly adhere to the established protocols. The position follows regular laboratory working hours, with no on-call duty or shift work, although some flexibility may occasionally be required to complete lengthy experiments. Finally, short-term travel within France or abroad is to be expected to attend international conferences, thematic schools, or engage in collaborative work.

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

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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