Postdoctoral Researcher in Physics – Instrumentation dedicated to the study of plasmas at University of the Littoral Opal Coast – France

Summary

The University of the Littoral Opal Coast (ULCO) is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Physics for a 12.5-month full-time contract starting December 1, 2026, based at the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physical Chemistry in Dunkirk, France. The selected candidate will engage in experimental developments concerning high-spectral-resolution Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy for in situ and real-time plasma diagnostics. Key duties include broadening observations to include other radicals, studying catalyst efficiency, elucidating reaction mechanisms at gas-catalyst interfaces, and adapting or designing a new reactor supporting inductive discharges at higher pressures (0.1 to 500 mbar). Candidates must hold a doctorate in Physics, Optics, or an equivalent discipline, with expertise in absorption spectroscopy, THz instrumentation, LabVIEW programming, vacuum technology, and spectral analysis. Applications comprising a CV and cover letter must be submitted by October 18, 2026.

Key Facts

About the Project

The research focuses on exploiting instrumentation and Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy (specifically CEAS and CRDS techniques) for decarbonization and high-spectral-resolution plasma diagnostics. The postdoctoral researcher will improve an existing prototype to increase sensitivity, broaden observations to additional radicals, evaluate catalyst efficiency, investigate gas-catalyst interface reaction mechanisms, and design or adapt a reactor for inductive discharges at pressures ranging from 0.1 to 500 mbar.

Key Responsibilities

• Continue experimental developments concerning high-spectral-resolution THz spectroscopy for in situ and real-time plasma diagnostics
• Broaden observations and studies to include other radicals
• Study the efficiency of a catalyst and elucidate reaction mechanisms at gas-catalyst interfaces
• Adapt or design a new reactor capable of supporting inductive discharges in a gas stream at higher pressures (0.1 to 500 mbar)
• Communicate research results to a scientific audience

Required Skills

• Mastery of basic techniques of absorption spectroscopy, ideally in the THz range
• LabVIEW programming skills
• Spectral analysis and writing/summarizing skills
• Knowledge of THz instrumentation (amplification, heterodyne detection, Gaussian beam)
• Knowledge of vacuum technology
• Knowledge of CRDS and CEAS techniques
• Ability to work autonomously

Who Should Apply

Researchers holding a doctorate in Physics, Optics, or an equivalent field with expertise in absorption spectroscopy (ideally in the THz domain), CRDS and CEAS techniques, LabVIEW programming, and vacuum technology who wish to work on high-spectral-resolution plasma diagnostics.

Benefits

• Contribution towards the costs associated with a home/work public transport pass
• Free public transport in the Dunkirk and Calais urban areas
• Sustainable mobility package (cycling, carpooling)
• Sports, cultural, and leisure activities for employees
• Social assistance and benefits
• Possibility of group catering
• Training opportunities for staff skills development

About the Employer

Established in 1991, the University of the Littoral Opal Coast (ULCO) is a multidisciplinary higher education institution in the Hauts-de-France region featuring four campuses in Boulogne-sur-Mer, Calais, Dunkirk, and Saint-Omer. It educates 10,000 students and employs 1,000 staff, including 500 teachers across three disciplinary research centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualification is required for this position?

Applicants must hold a Doctorate in Physics, Optics, or an equivalent degree.

What is the contract duration and start date?

It is a full-time fixed-term contract of 12.5 months starting on December 1, 2026.

Where is the position located?

The work will take place at the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physical Chemistry in Dunkirk, France.

What application documents are required?

Applicants must submit a CV and a cover letter.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted before October 18, 2026.