PhD Position: Development of an Innovative Target Ion Source System for 39Ca+ Beam Production in the MORA Experiment
Develop cutting-edge ion source technology to enhance radioactive beam production for fundamental physics research.
Best for:Best for physics PhD students with expertise in experimental nuclear physics, ion source technology, and hands-on laboratory work, seeking interdisciplinary collaboration in accelerator-based research.
Overview
This PhD position at the Grand Accélérateur National d'Ions Lourds (GANIL) focuses on designing and optimizing a novel target ion source system (TISS) to produce intense beams of radioactive calcium-39 ions (39Ca+). The work will advance the MORA experiment, which investigates CP symmetry violation in nuclear beta decay to explain the universe’s matter-antimatter asymmetry. The candidate will collaborate with international teams, conduct experimental studies, and integrate with data acquisition campaigns at Jyväskylä University. The project is funded by the ANR ACCLAIM MORA programme and aims to improve beam production capabilities for next-generation precision measurements in fundamental physics.
What you'll do
- Design and optimize a novel target ion source system (TISS) for producing intense 39Ca+ radioactive ion beams.
- Conduct experimental studies and simulations to improve ion beam production techniques.
- Collaborate with international teams to integrate findings with ongoing MORA experiment campaigns at Jyväskylä University.
- Participate in data acquisition campaigns and contribute to experimental validation of the ion source system.
- Develop and test prototypes of the ion source system, adapting existing TULIP technology for calcium-39 applications.
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
- Work in a multidisciplinary environment involving nuclear physics, accelerator technology, and experimental design.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related scientific discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for scientific communication and collaboration
Instruction: French and English (scientific collaboration primarily in English)
- Proven expertise in experimental nuclear physics or accelerator-based research
- Hands-on experience with ion source technology or radioactive beam production
- Strong background in physics simulations and modeling
- Familiarity with accelerator-based experimental setups
- Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and international collaborations
- Basic knowledge of nuclear data analysis and experimental techniques
- No specific nationality restrictions, but work authorization for France required
- No age restrictions, but typical PhD candidate age range (25-35) preferred
- No prior experience caps, but relevant research experience is advantageous
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-14
Applicants must submit their CV, a cover letter detailing their motivation and relevant experience, and a research proposal outlining their approach to the PhD project. Additional documents may include academic transcripts and letters of recommendation. Applications should be sent via the CNRS employment portal.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Letters of recommendation (2-3)
Contact
HR Department· Recruitment Coordinator
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