Research Assistant - Light emission and photon statistics in nanophotonic systems (Closed)

Pre-doctoral position
Position category: Research Assistant
Reference: 2024/35
Duration: 1 year
Application deadline: 2024/10/04
For more info contact the supervisors:
Javier Aizpurua
aizpurua@ehu.eus
Rubén Esteban
ruben.esteban@ehu.eus
How to apply

We are currently accepting applications for the above mentioned position. This is a unique opportunity for highly motivated students recently graduated from the University in Physics or related fields to gain research experience in one of DIPC’s high-profile research teams.

The role

The candidate will analyse theoretically and experimentally novel photophysical effects in nanophotonics. They will perform a detailed theoretical study of the intensity and the statistics of light emitted from single emitters (such as molecule or quantum dots), interacting with each other at the nanoscale as well as with state-of-the-art optical resonators. The aim is to find new designs of photon sources of complex photonic states as well as to advance towards improved molecular characterization techniques. The candidate will develop and implement the theoretical description of these systems, which will require to master a variety of theoretical methods and techniques including the solution of the master equation and the implementation of solvers of Maxwell’s equations. These methodologies will then be used to analyse and predict new phenomena. Furthermore, the candidate is expected to collaborate closely with the experimental group of Brahim Lounis, to ensure that the systems and effects studied are of practical interest in experimental situations and to validate the results of the theoretical models against measurements. The candidate is thus expected to have interest and capacity to tackle and integrate different approaches with the purpose of analysing novel configurations in nanophotonics.

Desired background & competences

Internationally-recognized master-equivalent degree in Physics, Material Science, Electrical Engineering or related topics. Expertise in the theoretical study of nanophotonic systems is strongly valued.

Working conditions

  • Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
  • Target start date: 2024/11/11

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The center

DIPC is a research center whose mission is to perform and catalyze cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines, as well as to convey scientific culture to society. Located in Donostia / San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain), DIPC was born from a strategic alliance of both public institutions and private companies. Since 2008 DIPC is a 'Basque Excellence Research Center' (BERC) recognized by the Basque Government's Department of Education. In 2019, DIPC was also recognized as a "Severo Ochoa" Excellence Center by the Spanish Research Agency.

About the team

The candidate will work in the Theory of Nanophotonics group, which has very extensive experience on the study of nanophotonic systems, molecular spectroscopy enhanced by nanoresonators and statistics of the emitted light. Further, the candidate is expected to work closely with the experimental group of Brahim Lounis in Bordeaux, experts on photon emission from single molecules.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

Selection process

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

  • CV of the candidate (60%)
  • Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (20%)
  • Reference letters (10%)
  • Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.

This contract will be funded by LTC Sareak.

Resolution

The resolution of this opening has been already published. You can download it here.