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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 atomic-scale optical properties of molecules and low-dimensional materials, particularly in the context of scanning probe microscopy and spectroscopy. 

What you will do

• Focus on the investigation of transport and optical properties of molecules and other low dimensional materials (transition-metal dichalcogenides, boron nitride, graphene-based structures, intrinsic, or artificially created defects in them, or  hetero]structures derived from them); perform, analyze, and interpret electronic-structure calculations using suitable first-principles software

• Integrate results of ab-initio calculations into models addressing light-matter interaction in atomic-scale optical environments (light emission in scanning tunneling microscopy - STML, tip-enhanced photoluminescence - TEPL). This involves, e.g., solving Maxwell or Poisson equations in dielectric environments with suitable input sources

• Develop models to address the dynamics of electrons, excitons, and photons in atomic-scale optical environments (e.g., quantum master equation, Lindblad formalism)

• Participate in group meetings, preparation of manuscripts and dissemination of results at conferences

• Work in an international environment in the heart of Europe and collaborate with our global partners in Europe and beyond

What we expect

• PhD in physics, chemistry, or related field

• Operational knowledge of methods to address excitations in 2D materials and derived structures (e.g., Quantum Espresso, ABINIT, Gaussian). Programming skills (e.g., Python, Matlab, FORTRAN, C, C++)

• At least 2 publications demonstrating research contributions

• Conceptual understanding of relevant physical phenomena and the ability to translate the concepts into practical models and solutions

• Capacity to independently conduct research, develop innovative ideas, and drive projects forward

• Will to learn new techniques and approaches

• Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse team of researchers and students

• Excellent communication skills 

• Fluent in English (written and spoken)

• Experience with ab-initio modelling of optical properties of molecules and/or 2D materials is an advantage

• Knowledge of the theory of plasmonics and nanophotonics and the methods used therein is an advantage

• Modelling of scanning-tunneling microscopy and related phenomena 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 in 2025 (as of September at the earliest)

• Full-time 

• 1-year contract (possible extension up to 3 years upon mutual agreement) 

• We expect applications by: 31 July 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, curriculum vitae (CV), and transcripts of degrees/diplomas.

• For additional information, please get in touch with Dr. Tomáš Neuman, neuman@fzu.cz

We look forward to hearing from you!