PhD in Symmetry-Driven Nonlinear Optics in Hexagonal Polytype Semiconductors (SYNOX)
Explore crystal-phase control to engineer novel nonlinear optical materials for quantum photonics and secure communication.
Best for:Best for physics graduates with a strong background in optics, photonics, or materials science, eager to contribute to quantum technologies and interdisciplinary research.
Overview
This PhD position within the LIGHTinPARIS programme focuses on investigating nonlinear optical behaviour in metastable hexagonal semiconductor thin films. The project leverages a patented breakthrough to engineer materials with strong χ(2) and intrinsic birefringence, aiming to develop disruptive sources of correlated photon pairs via spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC). The research will advance miniaturized nonlinear optical devices for on-chip quantum light sources, with applications in quantum communication and sensing. The successful candidate will collaborate across disciplines and benefit from secondment opportunities at ETH Zurich and CEMES, Toulouse. The position is fully funded under the Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND scheme and based at Université Paris-Saclay’s C2N laboratory.
What you'll do
- Investigate nonlinear optical properties of metastable hexagonal semiconductor thin films to enhance χ(2) and birefringence.
- Develop disruptive sources of correlated photon pairs using spontaneous parametric down conversion (SPDC) in subwavelength AlGaAs-hex films.
- Design and integrate miniaturized nonlinear optical devices for on-chip quantum light sources.
- Collaborate with international partners during secondment periods at ETH Zurich and CEMES, Toulouse.
- Conduct interdisciplinary research bridging photonics, materials science, and quantum technologies.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Participate in professional development activities, including teaching and innovation training.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree or equivalent in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; Good proficiency (equivalent to C1 level)
Instruction: English
- Strong background in optics, photonics, or materials science
- Experience with nonlinear optical phenomena or semiconductor materials
- Proficiency in experimental techniques for thin-film characterization
- Familiarity with quantum optics or photonics principles
- Good command of English for academic communication and collaboration
- Open to EU and non-EU candidates under MSCA COFUND eligibility rules (mobility rule applies)
- Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (e.g., work, studies) in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to the recruitment date
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-21T12:00:00+02:00 (Europe/Paris)
Applicants must first verify eligibility and contact the proposed thesis supervisor to discuss the project. Registration on the application portal opens on 21 July 2026, with a deadline to start an application on 15 September 2026. The final submission deadline is 21 September 2026 at 12:00 noon Paris time. Applications are submitted electronically via the LIGHTinPARIS application portal after completing an eligibility test.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc + MSc)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
- Eligibility test completion confirmation
Contact
LIGHTinPARIS Administrative Contact· Application Process Coordinator
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