⛔ This position is no longer available.
University: Jean Monnet University
Country: France
Deadline: Not specified
Fields: Physics, Optics, Photonics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering
Topic: France – PhD in Optical Metasurfaces at Jean Monnet University
Fields: Physics, Optics, Photonics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering
Position: PhD
Country: europe
Deadline: Not specified
University: Jean Monnet University
Real Country: France
Main Category: natural & physical sciences
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Are you passionate about advancing the frontiers of optical engineering and eager to contribute to groundbreaking technologies in telecommunications and biomedical imaging? If you aspire to develop innovative solutions at the intersection of physics, materials science, and computational modeling, this fully funded PhD opportunity in France offers a unique platform to launch your scientific career.
About the University or Research Institute
Jean Monnet University, located in Saint-Etienne, France, is a prestigious institution recognized for its research excellence and commitment to innovation. The university is affiliated with the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) and the Institut d’Optique Graduate School, two of France’s most respected research organizations. The Laboratoire Hubert Curien (LabHC), where this PhD position is based, stands out as a hub for interdisciplinary research in optics, photonics, and materials science.
Saint-Etienne itself is a vibrant city in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, known for its strong industrial heritage and dynamic student community. France, as a country, offers an enriching environment for international researchers, with access to world-class laboratories, a collaborative academic culture, and a high standard of living. Studying and researching in France not only opens doors to cutting-edge scientific resources but also provides cultural experiences and professional networking opportunities that can shape a successful global career.
Research Topic and Significance
The focus of this PhD project is the “Global polarizability approach for designing multi-functional metalens fiber endoscopes on micro- to macroscales.” The research aims to address the complex challenge of modeling and designing large-scale metasurfaces composed of strongly coupled, non-periodic meta-atoms. These engineered surfaces hold transformative potential for manipulating light in ways that surpass traditional optics.
Metasurfaces are at the forefront of next-generation optical technologies, enabling the creation of ultra-thin, highly functional optical components. The project’s goal is to develop predictive tools and optimized designs for multi-mode metalenses, with applications ranging from advanced telecommunications to biomedical imaging and clinical diagnostics. By bridging microscale and millimetric dimensions, the research will contribute to the development of compact, high-performance fiber endoscopes and other devices that could revolutionize medical diagnostics and optical communications.
This work is embedded in the broader context of the COMETA Joint Laboratory, a collaboration between the Institute for Research in Surface Engineering (IREIS, HEF group) and the Laboratoire Hubert Curien. COMETA’s mission is to pioneer new optical component designs by leveraging the unique properties of nanostructures and metasurfaces, combining academic insight with industrial relevance.
Project Details
The PhD project is hosted at the Laboratoire Hubert Curien, in close collaboration with the Institute for Research in Surface Engineering (IREIS, HEF group) within the Joint Laboratory COMETA. The research will involve advanced numerical modeling, computational electromagnetics, and the design and optimization of metasurfaces for real-world applications.
Supervision is provided by Dr. Anton Rudenko (LabHC, CNRS) and Prof. Jean-Philippe Banon (LabHC, Jean Monnet University), both of whom are experts in the field of optics and photonics. The project is supported by funding from the Institute for Research in Surface Engineering, ensuring a stable and resource-rich research environment.
The candidate will benefit from access to advanced laboratory facilities, interdisciplinary expertise, and opportunities for collaboration with industrial partners. The research will not only advance fundamental understanding but also produce practical solutions for emerging challenges in optical engineering.
Candidate Profile
Ideal applicants for this PhD position will have:
– A Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in Physics, Optics, Photonics, Materials Science, or closely related disciplines.
– Strong foundational knowledge in electromagnetics and optics.
– Hands-on experience with numerical modeling tools such as Python, MATLAB, or C++, and familiarity with computational electromagnetics codes (e.g., Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD), Discrete Dipole Approximation (DDA), Rigorous Coupled Wave Analysis (RCWA)).
– Proficiency in written and spoken English; knowledge of French is advantageous but not mandatory.
– Additional skills such as familiarity with Green’s functions, inverse design strategies, machine learning, and parallel programming (OpenMP, MPI, or GPU) are considered a plus.
– Motivation to work in a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment, including engagement with industrial partners.
– Demonstrated initiative, autonomy, and a strong commitment to successfully completing a doctoral thesis.
This opportunity is ideal for candidates seeking to deepen their expertise in photonics, computational physics, and applied optics, while contributing to impactful research with real-world applications.
Application Process
Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents:
1. An updated CV detailing education background, work experience, and professional skills.
2. An optional short motivation letter.
3. A transcript listing all courses taken and grades received for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
Application materials should be submitted as per the instructions in the official advertisement. Please refer to the official advertisement for application details.
For additional information about the position and to access the detailed offer, visit the following links:
– Main position page:
https://laboratoirehubertcurien.univ-st-etienne.fr/en/teams/photoinduced-reactive-dynamics-in-computational-theory/job-opportunities/phd-global-polarizability-approach-for-designing-multi-functional-metalens-fiber-endoscopes-on-micro-to-macroscales.html
– Information about the COMETA Joint Laboratory:
https://www.rhone-auvergne.cnrs.fr/fr/cnrsinfo/laboratoire-commun-cometa-revolutionner-loptique-avec-les-metasurfaces
Conclusion
This PhD position at Jean Monnet University offers a remarkable opportunity to engage in high-impact research at the crossroads of physics, optics, and materials engineering. By joining a leading French laboratory and collaborating with industrial partners, you can develop advanced skills and contribute to innovations that will shape the future of optical technologies.
If you are motivated to push the boundaries of knowledge in metasurfaces and optical device design, do not hesitate to apply. Stay connected for more opportunities in cutting-edge science and engineering.
Questions & Answers
Question: What are metasurfaces, and why are they important in modern optics?
Metasurfaces are engineered, ultra-thin materials that manipulate light in ways conventional optics cannot. They enable compact, multifunctional optical devices with applications in imaging, communications, and sensing.
Question: What is the significance of working in France for a PhD?
France is known for its strong research infrastructure, international collaborations, and supportive environment for graduate students. Studying here provides access to leading laboratories and a vibrant scientific community.
Question: What career opportunities can arise from a PhD in this field?
Graduates can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, and industries such as telecommunications, medical imaging, and photonic device manufacturing.
Question: Is knowledge of French required to apply?
Proficiency in English is essential. Knowledge of French is a plus but not mandatory for this position.
Question: What computational skills are most relevant to this project?
Experience with Python, MATLAB, or C++ for numerical modeling, and familiarity with computational electromagnetics codes (FDTD, DDA, RCWA) are highly relevant.
Question: Will the candidate have opportunities to collaborate with industry?
Yes, the project is embedded within a joint academic-industrial laboratory, offering direct collaboration with industrial partners.
Question: What documents are required for application?
Applicants should provide a CV, an optional motivation letter, and academic transcripts.
Question: Where can I find more information about the research group or project?
Visit the official university project page:
https://laboratoirehubertcurien.univ-st-etienne.fr/en/teams/photoinduced-reactive-dynamics-in-computational-theory/job-opportunities/phd-global-polarizability-approach-for-designing-multi-functional-metalens-fiber-endoscopes-on-micro-to-macroscales.html
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