Postdoc position, infrared irradiation of molecular ices, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France (Deadline: 31.03.2025)

A postdoctoral fellowship, funded by the French Scientific Research Center (Cnrs), is available for a duration of 18 months at Sorbonne Université (MONARIS laboratory, from Molecules to Nano-Objects: Reactivity, Interactions and Spectroscopies), in Paris, France. The position will take place in the Caracterisations, Interactions and Reactivities : Molecular Spectroscopy group, specialized in chemical physics applied to laboratory astrophysics or atmospheric sciences. The fellowship is expected to begin before May 2025. The salary ranges from 27 867 euros to 39 593 euros per year, depending on the experience after the PhD (net salary per year, without tax deduction).

The project aims to characterize the interactions between low-energy photons and analogs of interstellar ices. Infrared excitations can induce a reorganization of the ice and a desorption of molecules from the ice’s surface (infrared photodesorption). In this project, we will study experimentally both the effects of infrared irradiation on the restructuring of ices and molecular desorption, focusing on water ice, a key system in astrophysics. The ultimate goal is to unravel the parameters governing the ice restructuration, and to understand how the injected energy is redistributed within the ice. The results will provide valuable insights for the interpretation of James Webb observations and thereby enrich our knowledge of the physical-chemistry of ices.

The postdoctoral fellow will be based at Sorbonne Université, Paris, France. To perform resonant infrared irradiation experiments, a ultra-high vacuum instrument will be coupled with a tunable infrared powerful continuous laser. Ice modifications will be probed with optical diagnostics, high resolution Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. All the equipments needed to start the project are already available and 15 k€ will be available for additional supplies and conference participation.

The candidate must hold a PhD in Physical Chemistry, Chemistry or Physics, with a maximum of 5-6 years of experience after the PhD. The ideal candidate must possess a strong background in laboratory astrophysics or a related domain, in molecular physics, spectroscopy, lasers, mass spectrometry. They must speak English fluently and have good communication skills.

Applications should include:
– a cover letter,
– a CV,
– a list of publications,
– Contact information of two potential reference letter writers

Applications should be sent via email to:
Géraldine Féraud : geraldine.feraud@sorbonne-universite.fr
Xavier Michaut : xavier.michaut@sorbonne-universite.fr

Interviews will be conducted until the position is filled. The expected starting date is before May 2025.