Position Summary
Position:
Department:
microelectronics research centre
Institute:
National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS)
Country:
France
Research Field:
Physics, Materials Sciences, Engineering, Chemistry
Posted Date:
Feb 26, 2026
Deadline:
Mar 31, 2026
Offer Period:
3 Years
Offer Start Date:
Oct 01, 2026
PhD Position in 2D Perovskite Oxide Membranes
Description:
- For this PhD thesis, you will work on ferroelectric perovskite oxide membranes such as BaTiO3 (BTO) and rare earth nickelates, which exhibit an insulator-metal transition. We will investigate new strategies to drive and control transitions in nickelates by applying strain and explore new degrees of freedom to tune the membranes’ properties by e.g. controlling ferroelectric domain sizes via thickness reduction and twist angle. While the core of your work will focus on the fundamental properties of perovskite membranes and novel physical phenomena arising from the interaction between the layers, the ultimate goal is to exploit these new properties for neuromorphic computing devices.
- Your tasks will involve the material growth (pulsed laser deposition, RF sputtering), the fabrication of membranes and their characterisation. You will use advanced optical characterisation techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, scattering scanning near field optical microscopy, as well as atomic force microscopy as function of temperature, strain and electric f ield. As PhD candidate you will develop expertise in sample preparation, cutting-edge optical and surface probe characterisation techniques, device fabrication and characterisation. Statistical methods such as principal component analysis will be used to analyse and interpret the data, (Fig. 1). As part of the PhD programme, a research visit to our collaborators in Spain is foreseen, offering opportunities for international networking.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- The candidate should have a master’s degree in Physics, Materials Sciences, Engineering or Chemistry.
- They must be motivated and dynamic with strong abilities in experimental work.
- A good command of the English language is required, both written and oral (at least B2 level).
Preferred Qualification:
- Internship experience in a research laboratory will be strongly appreciated.
- Experience in 2D materials and/or ferroelectric materials would be a plus.
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- The starting date of the 3-years PhD position is 01 October 2026. It is a fixed term contract (36 months) with a gross monthly salary of ~2,300.00 €.
Benefits:
- As PhD student you will be working on the three different sites of the GREMAN laboratory (UMR CNRS): CERTeM (a microelectronics research centre) in Tours, the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Tours (Parc Grandmont, 37200 Tours) and the IUT (rue de la Chocolaterie, 41029 Blois). You will be enrolled as PhD student at the doctoral training school of the University of Tours, where you can benefit from a tailored training programme to acquire transferable, discipline-related and research skills. The following video will introduce you the University of Tours.
- The GREMAN laboratory has strong expertise in ferroelectric oxides (from their growth to device integration, including their complete characterisation). You will have access to state-ofthe-art facilities, laboratories and equipment including vast cleanroom facilities. This PhD position is part of the ANR JCJC project PerOMem.
- In this context, the doctoral student will join a vibrant international team. You will have the opportunity to contribute to an interdisciplinary team of physicists, materials scientists, engineers and chemists. The environment is open and collaborative, promoting daily interaction and knowledge exchange.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- detailed CV
- cover letter
- contact details of at least one reference
How to apply:
Prospective candidates should send their detailed CV, a cover letter and the contact details of at least one reference by email no later than 31/03/2026 to the three thesis supervisors:
- Anna Ott: anna.ott<at>univ-tours.fr
- Vinh Ta-Phuoc: vinh.ta-phuoc<at>univ-tours.fr
- Kevin Nadaud: kevin.nadaud<at>univ-tours.fr
The most promising candidates will be invited for an interview.
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), established in 1939, is France’s premier state research institution and ranks among the world’s leading research organizations. Operating under the Ministry of Higher Education and Research, it is a truly multidisciplinary body covering all scientific fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, humanities, engineering, and earth sciences. With over 32,000 employees and nearly 1,100 research units—mostly Joint Research Units with universities—the CNRS promotes collaborative, open science and drives innovation, managing thousands of patents and spawning numerous startups. It focuses on addressing major societal challenges, such as climate change, energy transition, and digital transformation, through its 10 specialized institutes. As a global player, the CNRS has a significant international presence with numerous foreign offices and research laboratories. It is known for its high standards of research, fostering gender equality and promoting scientific culture, while also providing critical expertise to support public decision-making.
Explore Other Similar Positions:
You may also be interested in the following PhD positions. These opportunities are currently open across universities and research institutes worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a PhD position?
PhD positions are open to candidates who hold, or will soon complete, a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field. Specific academic requirements may vary depending on the institution and research project.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most PhD positions are open to international applicants. Universities usually provide support for visa applications and residence permits, subject to national regulations.
Is a Master’s degree mandatory for applying to a PhD?
In most cases, a completed Master’s degree is required. However, some institutions may consider exceptional candidates with strong academic backgrounds or integrated Master–PhD programs.
What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
A PhD program typically lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the country, funding scheme, and research field. Some programs may allow extensions under specific circumstances.
Is the PhD position fully funded?
Most advertised PhD positions are fully funded and include a monthly salary or stipend. Funding details, tuition coverage, and benefits are usually specified in the job description.
Are PhD candidates considered students or employees?
This depends on the country and institution. In many European countries, PhD candidates are employed as staff members, while in others they may be registered as students receiving a stipend.
Are teaching responsibilities included in PhD positions?
Teaching duties vary by institution. Some PhD positions include teaching or lab supervision, while others are research-only. The exact expectations are described in each job advertisement.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.