PostDoc in Electronic Structure & Magnetism in Quantum Materials
2-year fixed-term contract (renewable for a maximum of two years)
Context
The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), situated in Grenoble, France, is Europe's leading research facility for scientific research using neutrons. Every year, we host over 2000 visits by scientists, who come to the Institute to carry out world-class research.
The objectives of the ILL Theory group are both to provide theoretical support to ILL scientists and users and to develop its own projects on neutron-related subjects. In this respect it favours long-term scientific collaborations and tries to cover a wide range of scientific domains.
Our scientific activity thus covers subjects ranging from strong correlation in condensed matter to the simulation of cell membranes in biophysics. We also use a variety of techniques, from analytical methods to Monte-Carlo simulation and ab-initio electronic structure calculations. As our aim is to be an effective support to ILL instrument scientists and ILL users, most of our work is directly related to experimental projects. To be efficient in providing theoretical support, however, requires that we also spend some time developing new methods.
Your tasks
The goal of the mission is to work on ab-initio electronic structure and spectroscopic calculations in strongly correlated quantum materials with a special focus on magnetic and multiferroic systems.
The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), situated in Grenoble, France, is Europe's leading research facility for scientific research using neutrons. Every year, we host over 2000 visits by scientists, who come to the Institute to carry out world-class research.
The objectives of the ILL Theory group are both to provide theoretical support to ILL scientists and users and to develop its own projects on neutron-related subjects. In this respect it favours long-term scientific collaborations and tries to cover a wide range of scientific domains.
Our scientific activity thus covers subjects ranging from strong correlation in condensed matter to the simulation of cell membranes in biophysics. We also use a variety of techniques, from analytical methods to Monte-Carlo simulation and ab-initio electronic structure calculations. As our aim is to be an effective support to ILL instrument scientists and ILL users, most of our work is directly related to experimental projects. To be efficient in providing theoretical support, however, requires that we also spend some time developing new methods.
Your tasks
The goal of the mission is to work on ab-initio electronic structure and spectroscopic calculations in strongly correlated quantum materials with a special focus on magnetic and multiferroic systems.
- The successful candidate will work on specific compounds, in close collaboration with experimentalists.
- The candidate will use ab-initio methods to develop effective models able to bring a coherent understanding of the experimentally observed properties of specific compounds. A special focus will be given to the understanding of neutron diffraction data, such as magnetic structure, magnetic excitations, etc.
- The candidate will potentially participate in the building of databases on magnetic systems for further machine learning.
Further information can be obtained by contacting the Head of the Theory group: Marie-Bernadette LEPETIT - email: lepetit@ext.ill.fr (please do not send your application to this address).
Your profile
The successful candidate should have:
Your profile
The successful candidate should have:
- A PhD in condensed matter physics or quantum chemistry obtained less than 4 years ago.
- A strong background in quantum mechanics, a reasonable knowledge of electronic structure calculations (such as DFT, wave-function methods, etc.).
- Experience with Linux.
- Some knowledge of group theory or crystallography would be an asset.
- Some knowledge in artificial intelligence would be appreciated.
What we offer |
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Quality of life
This position is based in Grenoble, a hub for research and technology, ideally located in the heart of the French Alps (just 3 hours from Paris/Provence by train, 1 hour from Lyon international airport and 1 ½ hours from Geneva). It is important for us that our staff achieve a healthy work-life balance. We therefore offer home working (under certain conditions), generous annual paid leave entitlement and a host of other benefits that you will discover when you arrive! |
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Prospects
We guarantee you a stable postdoctoral contract in a multicultural scientific environment. |
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Benefits
We offer generous social benefits (expatriation allowance, excellent health cover), moving and relocation assistance (under certain conditions) and an annual productivity bonus. We also offer language courses for you and your partner and subsidies for the use of public transport and the staff canteen, as well as for holidays and a variety of cultural and sports activities. For more details, visit https://www.ill.eu/careers/working-at-the-ill/employment-conditions. |
Sounds interesting?
Then why not take your next career step with us by applying online - preferably in English - via our career portal by 10.05.2026, quoting reference number 26/19 with a list of publications and scientific productions, the names of 3 referees, including one from your present workplace. Please note that all applicants are subject to administrative screening (background checks).
For this post, medical fitness is required. We are committed to equal opportunities and diversity and therefore welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) - operates Europe‘s leading research facility for basic research with neutrons in Grenoble (France). The passion for progress and technology unites us and makes innovation in science and research possible every day. Let‘s work together to change our society and our world for the better.
