Context
Warm Dense Matter (WDM), the regime lying between condensed matter and plasma physics, is of great interest in many contexts including planetary formation, planetary interiors or inertial fusion. Our primary focus is on planetology research reproducing extreme states of Iron and alloys equivalent to those found in planetary cores. We propose advanced and innovative experimental methods to create and probe such systems in laboratory. A close collaboration with theoretician will allow us to validate current models.

This will be achieved by experiments using FEL and high energy lasers. Indeed, a significant step towards this goal has been made by compressing matter up to 10 Mbar pressure with innovative ultra-high energy laser techniques. In parallel, the recent development of Free Electron Lasers (FEL) has succeeded in coupling exciting aspects of synchrotron radiation with intense beam properties, giving ultrafast, high intensity laser beams in the X-ray energy range. In addition, the FEL facilities are now equipped with complementary optical lasers opening many possibilities for dynamic studies with pump – probe techniques (MEC station at LCLS and the future HED station at XFEL).

The IRONFEL research program is funded by the ANR and is taking place at LULI laboratory. This scientific program is strongly related to the PlanetLAB ANR project and is taking place within the PHYDHEL group (A. Benuzzi-Mounaix, M.Koenig at LULI).

This position will consist in developing and using X-ray diagnostics as diffraction and absorption spectroscopy, coupled to laser shock compression for experiments on FEL and high energy lasers. The international collaborations as well as the dynamic research context will offer many future opportunities for the candidate.

Requirements:
- Experimental experience with x-ray diagnostics and/or high energy lasers
- Good theoretical understanding of warm dense matter and plasma physic.
- Experience in the design, construction and operation of experiments and extensive participation in measurement campaigns at FEL facilities or high energy lasers.
- Self-responsible independent work in accordance with mutually defined objectives, while also integrating into a team, contributing to an overall group success
- English language skills; ability to work in a multi-lingual, multi-disciplinary team

Duration: 1 or 2 years. The postdoctoral position will start as soon as possible.

Contact: marion.harmand@polytechnique.edu