PhD in atomic, molecular and optical physics

A PhD position (atomic physics) is available in the Institute of Condensed Matter and Nanosciences at UCLouvain (Belgium).

Project : The successful applicant will be involved in the development and construction of an experimental setup to study trapped ultracold alkaline-earth atoms with one electron in a high-lying orbital (Rydberg state), and will participate to the theoretical study of such systems using computer codes developed in-house. Our goals are 1) to investigate the manipulation (cooling, trapping, etc.) of divalent atoms in a Rydberg state; and 2) to study the correlated electronic motion in high-lying doubly-excited states of quasi-two-electron atomic systems, which form an ideal test bench to investigate the quantum three-body problem.

General information : The candidate will join the newly-established research team led by Prof. Matthieu Génévriez. The starting date is from 01.10.2021 onward. Gross salary is around 3000€ per month. Funding is secured for two years, during which the PhD candidate will be required to apply to other funding sources (e.g., FNRS-FRIA, guidance will be provided by the PhD supervisor). The Université catholique de Louvain is a center of excellence in research and teaching in Belgium, conveniently located 30 km south-east of Brussels in the town of Louvain-la-Neuve.

Profile : The position requires a Masters degree in physics or physical chemistry and a good knowledge of atomic and laser physics. Prior experience with laser systems, vacuum systems and programming (Python, Fortran, LabView) will be positively considered. We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate who is eager to learn, create, and innovate in a dynamic research environment!

Interested candidates should contact Matthieu Génévriez ([email protected] ). Applications must include a letter of motivation and a CV. They will be considered as they are received.

Information on the Institute of Condensed Matter and Nanosciences / Nanoscopic Physics research group is available at: https://uclouvain.be/en/research-institutes/imcn/naps/research-topics.html