Description du sujet de thèse

Spin qubits can take different forms, such as quantum dots, dopants in semiconductors, and single-molecule magnets (SMMs). The TbPc₂ molecule serves as a notable example of an SMM and will be the focal point of this proposed thesis. Single TbPc₂ molecules will be studied using electron spin resonance (ESR) within a low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM). The approach involves depositing the molecules on double layers of salt grown on Cu(100) and organizing them through tip-assisted manipulation to form 2D magnetic arrays of various shapes. The objectives are to develop and employ ESR-STM for precise spin detection at the millitesla level and to manipulate the TbPc₂ spin through reversible, current-induced changes in the molecular structure, thereby simulating a read/write device. Additionally, we aim to unravel magnetic interactions between molecules and investigate how structural or spin changes within a molecule impact neighboring molecules. This research, positioned at the intersection of spintronics and quantum information processing, holds promise for encoding information at the single-molecule level.

Contexte de travail

A research position is available in Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) at the Institut de Physique et Chimie des Matériaux de Strasbourg (IPCMS), which is a mixed Insitute of the University of Strasbourg, and the CNRS. The successful candidate will join the STM team, which studies the electronic, spin-related, and luminescence properties of nanostructures, single atoms and molecules, and atomic-scale contacts. More information can be found at https://www-ipcms.u-strasbg.fr/stmipcms/.
The work involves a low-temperature (1.4 K), ultra-high vacuum STM with a 5 T perpendicular magnetic field, located in a low-noise facility. The project is supervised by Dr. Laurent Limot (CNRS) and supported by two engineers. The team also benefits from internal theoretical input and external collaborations.
This is an opportunity to carry out advanced research in a well-equipped environment, with strong technical and scientific support.

Le poste se situe dans un secteur relevant de la protection du potentiel scientifique et technique (PPST), et nécessite donc, conformément à la réglementation, que votre arrivée soit autorisée par l'autorité compétente du MESR.

Contraintes et risques

The PhD candidate (M/F) may occasionally need to work extended hours to complete experimental projects. International travel will also be required to collaborate with other researchers, attend conferences, or access specialized research equipment.