Precision Measurements and tests of fundamental physics with cold molecules

Role Overview:
The PhD student will participate in the development of a new-generation molecular clock specifically designed for precision vibrational spectroscopy of cold molecules in the gas phase. The proposed technology is at the forefront of cold molecule research and frequency metrology, and opens possibilities for using polyatomic molecules to perform tests of fundamental physics and explore the limits of the standard model. The apparatus will be used in the first place for measuring the electroweak-interactions-induced tiny energy difference between enantiomers of a chiral molecule, a signature of parity (left-right symmetry) violation, and a sensitive probe of dark matter.

Responsibilities:
- Set up the mid-IR quantum cascade laser system at 6.4 μm and 15.5 μm to probe molecular vibrations in these spectral regions.
- Perform first Doppler and sub-Doppler absorption spectroscopy on cold molecules produced at ~1 K in a novel cold molecule apparatus, with a particular focus on well-chosen promising chiral and achiral organo-metallic species and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Requirements:
- Master degree in physics, chemical physics, optics

Qualifications:
- Laboratory: Laboratoire de Physique des Lasers
- Field of research: Physics, Mid-IR molecular spectroscopy
- Skills: Frequency Metrology, Mid-Infrared Optics, Vacuum Technology, Electronics, Molecular Physics, Cryogenic Buffer-Gas Cooling, Python coding/Simulation
- Knowledge: Quantum Physics, Rovibrational spectroscopy, laser physics, Mid-IR photonics

What They Offer:
- Temporary job
- Full-time position
- Starting date: 1 Oct 2026
- Work location: Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Villetaneuse, France
- Application deadline: 25 Jun 2026
- Salary not specified
- Research environment in a leading laboratory
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge research in precision measurements and fundamental physics with cold molecules