We are looking for a highly motivated candidate for a PhD thesis on "Ab-initio Simulation of Optical Properties of Noble-Metal Clusters" at the Centre Interdisciplinaire de Nanosciences de Marseille – CINaM – (Aix-Marseille University and CNRS; http://www.cinam.univ-mrs.fr).

The optical properties of many noble-metal nanoclusters are dominated, in the visible and the ultraviolet ranges, by the strong optical absorption due to the appearance of localized surface-plasmon resonances (LSPR), which correspond to collective oscillations of the conduction electrons and which are exploited in a large number of applications.

In the proposed thesis work, we will study the influence of the environment and, in particular, of the nature and the arrangement of ligand molecules on the optical properties of monolayer-protected clusters, mostly of silver and gold. This will be done primarily using Time-Dependent Density-Functional Theory (TDDFT) in atomistic calculations.

A full description of the thesis project is found here: https://amubox.univ-amu.fr/index.php/s/n5dAr4AmYShQsfp

Candidates should have a solid background in condensed matter physics and/or quantum chemistry, with working knowledge on computational and numerical methods. Research experience at MSc level is required, preferably in the development and/or application of ab initio modeling tools. Furthermore, the candidate should be enthusiastic about the prediction and theoretical understanding of quantum phenomena concerning light-matter interaction at the nanoscale. He/she must be interested and able to work in collaboration within international multidisciplinary teams.

Necessary documents for the application are: a CV including the grades of previous education (in particular during the MSc) and the names of two references (or two letters of recommendation), as well as a letter of motivation. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact H.-Ch. Weissker at the CINaM Marseille before April 5.