We are currently looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise related to modelling of the optical response of materials on the atomic scale.
The successful candidate (m/f/d) will join a progressive Light and matter theory group at the Institute of Physics (FZU) of the Czech Academy of Science led by Tomáš Neuman. The team investigates light-matter interaction on the nanoscale, including the theoretical engineering of molecular emitters for quantum devices. The candidate will become a member of the QuantERA team working on the project MOLAR (MOLecular LAttice quantum electRodynamics).
For more information and for submitting your application follow the link above!
What will you do:
Focus on the investigation of molecular emitters composed of single dye molecules or their aggregates using ab-initio methods. This will involve describing the molecule’s vibronic structure and engineering its emission properties, e.g., by controlling the molecule’s environment, creating molecular aggregates, etc.
Integrate results of ab-initio calculations into models addressing light-light-matter interaction, particularly in the context of photonic lattices where collective effects related to engineered long-range optical interactions emerge. This involves developing models accounting for the dynamics of the excitations in molecular emitters coupled to structured photonic baths
Participate in group meetings, preparation of manuscripts, and dissemination of results at conferences
Work in an international environment and collaborate with our partners
What we expect
PhD in physics, chemistry, or related field
Basic knowledge of ab-initio methods to address molecular excitations (e.g., Gaussian, NWChem, or any other quantum-chemistry software)
Knowledge of quantum optics and related models and techniques, or interest to learn them
Programming skills (e.g., Python, Matlab, FORTRAN, C, C++)
Advanced English (written and spoken)
Will to learn new techniques and approaches
Ability to join the team within a reasonably short time
Experience with advanced ab-initio modelling of molecules is an advantage
Practical experience in the field of quantum optics/photonics/plasmonics is an advantage
Why join us
Interesting work in cutting-edge research and development of atomic-scale optics
Collaboration with international partners
Participation in multidisciplinary scientific projects
5 weeks of vacation + 6 days of personal leave
Meal allowance, own canteen in the area
After the first year of employment, contribution to pension and life insurance, contribution to recreation, culture or sports
English lessons at the workplace
Possibility to use the recreational facilities of the FZU in Krkonoše
Outdoor sports facilities (tennis, volleyball), Multisport card, and other benefits
Find out more about us - Why FZU?
It´s good to know
Place of work – Cukrovarnická, Prague 6 – Střešovice
Start of employment ASAP
Full-time 1-year contract (possible extension until the end of the duration of the QuantERA project) We expect applications by: 15 December 2025
Interested candidates are invited to apply by sending the following documents via the application form: A cover letter detailing career objectives and research interests, a curriculum vitae (CV), and transcripts of degrees/diplomas.
For additional information, please get in touch with Dr. Tomáš Neuman at neuman@fzu.cz.
We look forward to hearing from you!
