electrolysis, and other energy technologies. The project will leverage amphiphilic polymers as artificial proton channels, embedded in a crosslinked polyamide matrix. The polymers will be chemically tailored to facilitate selective proton transport. The successful candidate will contribute to the synthesis, characterization, and optimization of these membranes, with the goal of achieving high proton conductivity, and durability.
Key responsibilities
- Synthesis of Proton-Conducting Polymers:
- - Design and synthesize amphiphilic polymers functionalized with proton-conducting groups (to enable efficient proton transport.
- - Optimize the molecular architecture and functionalization to enhance proton conductivity and selectivity.
- Fabrication of TFC Membranes:
- - Develop interfacial polymerization protocols to embed proton-conducting polymers in a crosslinked polyamide matrix.
- - Explore alternative chemistries (e.g., thiol-ene click reactions) to tailor matrix properties for improved proton transport and mechanical stability.
- Characterization and Validation:
- - Perform precise living polymerization methods and precisely characterize molecular structure of macromolecules obtained (combination of SEC. kinetic studies, and spectroscopy).
- - Assess proton conductivity, selectivity, and durability of TFC membranes using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, fuel cell testing, and per-extraction setups.
The postdoctoral researcher will work within the Centre de Recherche sur les Macromolécules Végétales (CERMAV), a CNRS research unit located on the university campus in Grenoble. Our laboratory has a strong interdisciplinary culture, bringing together expertise in chemistry, physical chemistry, biology, and materials science. This integrated approach has enabled the laboratory to establish a prominent international position in key research areas related to sugars (mono-, oligo-, and polysaccharides), including their in vivo and in vitro synthesis, characterization, as well as their functions and applications in addressing major societal challenges in human health, new energy technologies, and materials of the future.
The work will be carried out in close collaboration with several CERMAV researchers and engineers whose complementary expertise encompasses the recombinant production of enzymes, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides; the structural and macromolecular characterization of polysaccharides using NMR spectroscopy and chromatography; radiation scattering techniques; microscopy; and rheometry. The project is funded by CNRS Chemistry.
Where to apply
Website:
https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/CDD/UPR5301-ALLMAR-007/Default.aspx
Requirements
Research Field: Chemistry
Education Level: PhD or equivalent
Research Field: Physics
Education Level: PhD or equivalent
Research Field: Physics
Education Level: PhD or equivalent
Languages: FRENCH
Level: Basic
Research Field: Chemistry
Years of Research Experience: None
Research Field: Physics » Chemical physics
Years of Research Experience: None
Research Field: Physics » Biophysics
Years of Research Experience: None
Additional Information
Eligibility criteria
Qualifications required:
- PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Strong background in polymer synthesis, polymer characterization.
- Proficiency in analytical techniques (e.g., chromatography, spectroscopy, microscopy).
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
Additional comments
NA
Website for additional job details
https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/CDD/UPR5301-ALLMAR-007/Default.aspx
Work Location(s)
Number of offers available: 1
Company/Institute: Centre de recherches sur les macromolécules végétales
Country: France
City: GRENOBLE
Contact
City: GRENOBLE
Website: http://www.cermav.cnrs.fr
