PhD position on the influence of electron correlation and nuclear dynamics in strong field ionization at CELIA, Bordeaux University, France

We have a fully-funded PhD position (3 years) at CELIA on strong field ionization, Brunel radiations and high-order harmonic generation (HHG). The objective of the project is to analytically and numerically investigate the influence of the nuclear motion and electron correlation on these secondary radiation processes. Two ab-initio theoretical models will be developed based on the numerical solution of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation (TDSE). The first model will incorporate coupled electron–nuclear dynamics to explore the role of nuclear motion during strong-field ionization. The second model will describe electron–electron correlation effects to study their impact on secondary emissions. Special attention will be given to the quantum coherence of the electronic system and its imprint on the emitted radiation. The project aims to study regimes where entangled electronic wave packets are formed during the interaction, and how the resulting coherent quantum states influence the properties of the generated terahertz and HHG radiation yields.

The PhD is planned to start in September-October 2026 and the selection of candidates will take place in
May-June 2026.

Key words: Ionization and vibrational dynamics, electron correlation, quantum coherence, time-
dependent Schrödinger equation, terahertz radiation, strong field and attosecond physics.

Expected know-how: Good knowledge of quantum physics and electromagnetism. Programming skills
(algorithms). Good knowledge of languages Python, C and C++ will be appreciated.

Contact: fabrice.catoire@u-bordeaux.fr and luc.berge@u-bordeaux.fr