PhD student (M/F) — Experimental spinon signatures: establishing a reference framework for quantum spin liquids

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Quantum spin liquids (QSLs) are exotic states of matter that have been predicted theoretically but whose experimental observation remains a major challenge. In these magnetically frustrated systems, spins do not order even at very low temperatures and form a highly entangled quantum state, giving rise to emergent quasiparticles such as spinons. The objective of this PhD project is to experimentally detect these new quasiparticles through thermal conductivity measurements at very low temperatures.

Your Work Environment

The position is based at the Laboratoire des Solides Irradiés (LSI), UMR 7642 CNRS / École polytechnique / CEA, on the campus of the Institut Polytechnique de Paris in Palaiseau. The PhD student will join the “New Electronic States” team and work on the new millikelvin thermal transport device developed at the laboratory.
The PhD student will receive close supervision, including at least one weekly one-on-one meeting with the French supervisors and regular check-ins with the co-supervisors in Sherbrooke. Progress is also discussed during the team's weekly group meetings.

Constraints and risks

• Structured international mobility: stays at the University of Sherbrooke (Quebec, Canada) throughout the three years of the PhD program for the synthesis of single crystals and complementary experiments
• Travel and living expenses: MITI's 2026 International Thesis Program covers only the salary; travel and living expenses abroad are covered by additional funding secured by the host team.
• Regular work in a cryogenic environment (liquid helium, ³He/⁴He dilution) and with intense magnetic fields: strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols.
• Handling of fragile single-crystal samples: requires meticulousness and precision.
• Occasional additional travel within France and internationally (conferences, thematic schools, exchanges with the University of Montreal).

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