Postdoctoral Position in Stochastic Thermodynamics in ENS de Lyon / CNRS – France

Summary

The Laboratoire de Physique at ENS de Lyon / CNRS in France is offering an 18-month postdoctoral research position in stochastic thermodynamics as part of the ANR VAST project. Supervised by Research Director Ludovic Bellon, the researcher will explore energy exchanges, temperature evolution, and information theory in micro-mechanical resonators subject to thermal baths and external control potentials. The role involves both theoretical modeling and experimental measurements using low-noise optical detectors. Eligible applicants must hold a PhD in a relevant physics discipline with 1 to 4 years of experience, expertise in statistical physics and stochastic thermodynamics, and proficiency in Python or Matlab. Benefits include 44 days of leave and transport subsidies. Applications close on November 23, 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Laboratoire de Physique
Position Type	Postdoc
Discipline	Physics
Research Area	Stochastic Thermodynamics
Degree Required	Doctorate
Experience	1 to 4 years relevant experience
Funding	ANR VAST project
Contract Duration	18 months
Language	English
Deadline	2026-11-23
Employer Address	69364 Lyon 07, France
Employer Contact	Ludovic Bellon

About the Project

The project investigates the stochastic thermodynamics of micro-mechanical resonators interacting with thermal baths and external potentials. Key goals involve quantifying work and heat exchanges, studying resonator temperature evolution, and evaluating the role of information under feedback. The project combines real-time feedback optimization and low-noise optical measurements with theoretical modeling to evaluate maximum efficiencies for applications in logic gate energy consumption and micro-system stability.

Key Responsibilities

• Optimization of the real-time feedback system for coupling the resonator with external force.
• Measurement campaigns using a very low-noise optical detector.
• Data analysis and interpretation within stochastic thermodynamics and information theory frameworks.
• Modeling experiments and calculating maximum theoretical efficiencies.
• Writing scientific reports, articles, and presenting findings at international conferences.
• Participating in the supervision of internships and PhD students.

Required Skills

• Deep theoretical knowledge in stochastic thermodynamics, statistical physics, Brownian motion, and information theory.
• Experimental knowledge in low-noise measurements.
• Proficiency in data analysis using Matlab or Python.
• Fluency in scientific and technical English, both written and oral.

Who Should Apply

Researchers holding a doctorate in physics with 1 to 4 years of relevant experience, possessing strong expertise in stochastic thermodynamics, statistical physics, Brownian motion, low-noise experimental setups, and scientific programming in Python or Matlab.

Benefits

• 44 days annual leave and RTT
• Remote working practice and compensation
• 75% public transport coverage
• Sustainable mobility package up to €300

About the Employer

The Physics Laboratory (Laboratoire de Physique) at ENS de Lyon in France has a team of approximately 180 people and provides access to functional experimental physics setups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this postdoctoral contract?

The contract duration is 18 months.

What degree is required to apply?

A Doctorate degree is required.

Where is the workplace located?

The position is based at the Laboratoire de Physique, 69364 Lyon 07, France.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is November 23, 2026.

Are there specific health or safety risks listed for this post?

Yes, the position involves laser safety risks (Class 3R and 3B).