PhD in Spintronic RF Neural Networks - Neuromorphic Physics

About the Role

CNRS’s Laboratoire Albert Fert in Palaiseau, France, is offering a PhD position on fabrication, characterisation, and frequency-domain learning in spintronic RF neural networks. The project sits in the “Neuromorphic Physics” team and combines experimental nanophysics with machine learning to demonstrate hardware-compatible training strategies for spintronic radio-frequency devices. Start date is 1 September 2026.

This is an R1-level position (no prior research experience required beyond a Master’s degree). The contract is full-time and temporary (three years standard French doctoral contract). Salary follows CNRS/French doctoral scale, typically around EUR 2,200 net per month plus social benefits.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate spintronic RF nanodevices using cleanroom processes at the Laboratoire Albert Fert
• Characterise device performance through electrical and RF measurements
• Develop and implement learning algorithms for frequency-domain neural network training
• Combine experimental results with machine learning simulations to validate hardware-compatible training
• Publish in physics and applied machine learning journals and present at international conferences
• Work within a permanent team of senior researchers and postdoctoral fellows

Requirements

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in experimental physics, nanophysics, spintronics, electrical engineering, or a closely related field
• Experience or strong interest in nanofabrication and cleanroom processes
• Proficiency in Python and machine learning algorithms
• Basic French language ability (for laboratory and daily life in Paris region)
• No prior doctoral research experience required

Nice to Have

• Exposure to RF/microwave instrumentation or characterisation
• Background in magnetic materials or magnetic resonance
• Experience with deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow)
• Prior cleanroom or thin-film deposition experience

How to Apply

Apply through the CNRS employment portal at emploi.cnrs.fr (reference UMR137-JULGRO0-026) before 27 June 2026. Your application must include a CV, academic transcripts, a motivation letter, and contact details for at least one academic referee. Informal enquiries can be directed to the supervising researchers at Laboratoire Albert Fert before the deadline.