Job Information
Organisation/Company: CEA-GRENOBLE
Department: IRIG
Research Field: Technology » Energy technology; Physics » Chemical physics; Physics » Biophysics
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions: Postdoc Positions
Application Deadline: 30 Sep 2026 - 00:00 (Europe/Paris)
Country: France
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full-time
Offer Starting Date: 1 Dec 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?: Not funded by a EU programme
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?: No
Offer Description
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join a two-year interdisciplinary project on protein-based nanotechnologies for energy harvesting, based in Grenoble (French Alps). This position is part of the BioVolt project, a collaborative effort between the Chemistry and Biology of Metals Laboratory (https://irig.cea.fr) and the Laboratory of Electrochemistry and Physical-Chemistry of Materials and Interfaces (https://lepmi.grenoble-inp.fr/en).
Project Overview
Water, which covers 71% of the Earth's surface, is the largest energy reservoir on the planet and captures approximately 35% of the solar energy received by Earth. Hydrovoltaic energy — the conversion of water interaction into electricity — has recently emerged as a novel and promising field. While current efforts mainly focus on inorganic materials, we explore the potential of biological systems, specifically amyloid protein nanofibrils, as active layers for ambient humidity-powered energy devices.
The project combines fundamental research with applied objectives:
- Investigate the physicochemical mechanisms underlying energy generation from water interaction with protein nanofibrils.
- Design and fabricate energy conversion devices to optimize performance.
- Develop proof-of-concept demonstrators for targeted low-power applications.
Candidate Profile
Qualifications & Specialization
- PhD in condensed matter physics, electrochemistry, materials science, or bioelectronics.
- Specialization in one or more of the following areas:
- Humidity-responsive materials (biological, organic, or hybrid).
- Energy conversion mechanisms (hydrovoltaic, triboelectric, piezoelectric, etc.).
- Low-power generation and storage systems.
Technical Skills
- Electrical characterization of materials (I–V, impedance spectroscopy, noise, low-frequency measurements).
- Experience with thin-film deposition techniques (spin coating, drop casting, screen printing).
- Simulation tools (COMSOL, SPICE) are a plus.
- Data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools.
Research Experience
- At least 1–2 publications in related fields (e.g., hydrovoltaic systems, bio-sourced materials, self-powered sensors).
- Interdisciplinary background (physics/chemistry/biology/electronics) is highly valued.
- Experience with applied research projects (e.g., health, environment, IoT) is an asset.
Application
Interested candidates should send the following documents:
- A detailed CV
- A cover letter highlighting relevant experience and motivation
- Contact information for two references
Where to apply
E-mail: vincent.forge@cea.fr
Requirements
Research Field: Technology » Energy technology
Education Level: PhD or equivalent
Languages: ENGLISH
Level: Good
Research Field: Technology » Energy technology; Physics » Chemical physics
Work Location(s)
Number of offers available: 1
Company/Institute: CEA Grenoble
Country: France
City: GRENOBLE
Contact
City: Grenoble
Website: https://irig.cea.fr
Street: 17 rue des Martyrs
Postal Code: 38054
E-Mail: vincent.forge@cea.fr
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