Physical Chemistry

Chemistry seminar by Prof. Yves Geerts (Université Libre de Bruxelles) on historical attempts by Pasteur and Curie to direct chiral symmetry breaking with external fields, why they failed, and how chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) under non-equilibrium conditions now enables enantiomer separation and control of molecular handedness.

Lead experimental development in the Attochirality ERC project, commissioning circularly polarised attosecond sources, pulse-characterisation methods and spin-resolved electron detection. Coordinate reaction-microscope experiments on chiral electronic dynamics and mentor junior researchers. This full-time appointment is initially for one year and can be renewed up to five years. The preferred start is 1 October 2026 or by agreement. The employer currently accepts online applications and reviews them until filled. Submit a cover letter, CV with publications, a two-page research statement, degree documentation and three referee contacts.

Join the Attochirality ERC project to build and characterise circularly polarised attosecond light pulses and investigate chiral charge migration. Work combines high-harmonic generation, ultrafast optics and three-dimensional electron–ion coincidence measurements, covering isolated molecules and microhydrated clusters. The full-time doctoral position is funded for four years, subject to progress. The preferred start is 1 October 2026 or by agreement. The official vacancy currently accepts online applications, with review continuing until filled. Submit a cover letter, CV, degree certificates and transcripts, a one-page research summary, and at least two referee contacts.