Postdoctoral position in Molecular Nonlinear Optics

Fully funded Postdoctoral position (2 years)

Molecular Nonlinear Optics in Plasmonic Nanogaps for Optomechanical Frequency Conversion

Recently, the Laboratory of Quantum and Nano-Optics at EPFL demonstrated coherent frequency upconversion from mid-infrared to visible domain using a single plasmonic nanocavity containing a few hundred molecules as optomechanical transducer [DOI: 10.1126/science.abk3106]. The experiment is also the first realisation of vibrational sum frequency generation under continuous-wave excitation.

We are now looking for an outstanding postdoctoral candidate with demonstrated achievements in nano-plasmonics, molecular spectroscopy and/or nonlinear optics, to push this research direction to single-molecule coherent mid-IR frequency upconversion. It will require developing novel plasmonic nano-antennas, advanced molecular functionalisation techniques and complex optical measurements. Only highly skilled, motivated and autonomous researchers may be qualified for the position.

Essential Skills:

• Outstanding academic achievements and relevant experimental research experience;
• Excellent understanding of plasmonics, nonlinear optics and molecular spectroscopy;
• Ability to interact with the team, supervise students, and write scientific papers;
• Excellent communication skills and professional proficiency in English.

Valuable additional expertise:

• Surface science or chemistry;
• Micro/nano-fabrication;
• Advanced optical micro-spectroscopy.

Start date: Fall 2023 (flexible)

EPFL offers internationally competitive salaries (starting at 86’100 CHF/year for postdocs), generous research support and outstanding research infrastructure. Academics in Switzerland enjoy many research funding opportunities, as well as excellent standard of living.

EPFL is an equal opportunity employer and family friendly university. It is committed to increasing the diversity of its scientific staff.