Postdoctoral position in Atomic Force Microscopy
Organization: CNRS, Center for Structural Biology (CBS)
Position Information:
What is the smallest thing we can see on the surface of water? The surface of water is the prevalent interface on our planet. Yet, even the most advanced microscopy techniques do not provide nanoscale images of its surface. Yes, reciprocal-space methods such as X-Ray or neutron scattering & reflectivity can provide indirect structural information, but it is an averaged one.
This project aims to develop a novel microscopy approach capable of directly imaging the surface of water with nanometric resolution. We will design and construct an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) integrated within a Langmuir trough, permitting high-resolution and real-time characterization of films directly on liquid surfaces.
Key responsabilities
In this position, you will go beyond being a typical AFM user who uses a commercial microscope. Instead, you will contribute to advancing AFM and microscopy by designing and developing an instrument capable of observing phenomena that are currently impossible to visualize.
Minimum qualifications
Motivated and ambitious candidates are encouraged to apply. We require:
- Experience in Scanning Probe Microscopy
- A Master & PhD degree in physics, engineering, or biophysics
- A high level of interest in instrumentation, protocols & techniques development
- Relevant scientific experience supported by publication record
- Excellent English communication skills
Experience in Optics, Electronics (especially, Lock-In Amplifiers, Phase-Locked Loops, PID controllers, Oscilloscopes, Function generators & Multimeters).
Experience with FreeCAD or equivalent (i.e. Solidworks).
Computational skills (i.e. Labview, Python, Matlab).
Application procedure
Applications will be evaluated as they are received. The application must be submitted in English to luca.costa@cnrs.fr. It must include the following:
- Curriculum vitae with a list of publications
- Cover letter tailored specifically to the advertised position
- A report on previous research
- The names, addresses and contact details of 2 referees
NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at the Center for Structural Biology.
Interested? Apply before November 30, 2026.