We are seeking to fill a postdoctoral position on the theoretical treatment of the electronic response of noble-metal clusters at the CINaM (Centre interdisciplinaire de Nanoscience a Marseille, http://www.cinam.univ-mrs.fr) in the group of Theory and Simulation, with H.-Ch. Weissker, in collaboration with the ILM in Lyon (F. Rabilloud, http://ilm.univ-lyon1.fr/index.php?option=com_directory&task=profile&id=356).

The work will focus on the calculation of the electronic response of noble metal clusters using TDDFT methods. The position is available within the ANR project FIT SRPINGS ("From individual transitions to Surface-Plasmon Resonances in Nano-Gold and -Silver", http://www.agence-nationale-recherche.fr/?Project=ANR-14-CE08-0009)

This project is a combined experimental and theoretical study of the response of small noble-metal clusters. In particular, single-particle measurements are carried out using EELS in the electron microscope. They are compared with ensemble measurements. Theory, using TDDFT, aims at describing and understanding the experimental findings.

Two main options for the post-doc are possible which can be chosen depending on prior experience and research interest of the chosen candidate. (i) The direct simulation of the EELS experiments, or, (ii), an in-depth study of the effect of the environment (oxydation; matrix...) on the optical properties.

The successful candidate will have a PhD in theoretical Physics or Chemistry, a solid background in condensed matter physics and/or quantum chemistry, and ample experience with ab initio calculations. Previous coding experience will be an advantage. Furthermore, the candidate should be enthusiastic about the prediction and theoretical understanding of quantum phenomena concerning light-matter interaction at the nanoscale. She/He must be interested and able to work in collaboration within international multidisciplinary teams.

In particular, we have several ongoing collaborations with theoretical and experimental groups, among which the UAM in Madrid and UTSA San Antonio, TX., USA, and an implication in the ETSF network.

For further information on the project, please contact me ([email protected]). Consideration of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested candidates are invited to send their CV, a short summary of their scientific achievements (max 2 pages), a full list of publications and references to Hans-Christian Weissker ([email protected]).