PhD: Precise spin detection and manipulation of a single molecule magnet (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

This 48-month PhD project is part of the Gen-Q doctoral programme (Eucor – The European Campus), embedded in an international, interdisciplinary research environment strongly focused on quantum technologies. The project is funded by the European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, under a Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant agreement (No. 101217386), ensuring excellent scientific and contractual conditions.

More information on the Gen-Q programme:
https://www.eucor-uni.org/en/doctorates/gen-q
Application deadline: 18 March 2026
Horizon Europe call – Topic 38C

The PhD project focuses on spin qubits, which constitute fundamental building blocks for quantum computing, quantum simulation, and quantum sensing. The research centers on the molecule TbPc₂, a prototypical single-molecule magnet (SMM) providing a well-defined molecular qubit platform, characterized by discrete energy levels, strong magnetic anisotropy, and measurable coherence times. The molecules will be deposited on double layers of insulating salt on Cu(100) to preserve quantum coherence, and subsequently assembled by STM manipulation into artificial two-dimensional magnetic networks. The systems will be investigated at the single-molecule level using electron spin resonance (ESR) implemented in a low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM), with the objective of achieving atomic-scale readout, control, and coherent manipulation of individual spin qubits, with direct perspectives toward scalability, quantum spintronics, and molecular quantum information processing.

Your Work Environment

The position will be hosted at the Institut de Physique et Chimie des Matériaux de Strasbourg (IPCMS, UMR 7504), a joint CNRS–University of Strasbourg research unit internationally recognized for its work in nanoscience, quantum materials, and surface physics. The successful candidate will join a team specializing in the study of magnetic phenomena at the atomic scale, in close interaction with other groups at the institute and with several European academic partners active in quantum spintronics and quantum magnetometry. The research will rely on a state-of-the-art experimental environment, in particular a low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM) operating at 1.4 K, under ultra-high vacuum and magnetic fields up to 5 Tesla, as well as advanced cryogenic and ultrathin film growth facilities. The laboratory is located on the Cronenbourg campus in Strasbourg, easily accessible by public transportation and offering on-site university dining facilities.

The position is in a field subject to the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST) and therefore requires, in accordance with current regulations, prior authorization from the competent authority of the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR) before the appointment can take effect.

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

The research professions