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Job Information
- Organisation/Company: Institut de Chimie des Milieux et Matériaux de Poitiers
- Research Field: Chemistry » Heterogeneous catalysis; Chemistry » Reaction mechanisms and dynamics
Offer Description
The project aims to develop sustainable and mechanically robust heterogeneous catalysts for mechanocatalytic processes, with a particular focus on metal oxides and solid-acid catalysts prepared through environmentally friendly mechanochemical synthesis routes. Several promising solid catalysts have already been identified within the consortium and will serve as starting materials for further optimization and development. The research will investigate the relationship between catalyst composition, structure, surface properties, mechanical stability, and catalytic performance. The catalysts will be comprehensively characterized using advanced physicochemical techniques, including Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Particular attention will be given to the mechanical robustness of catalysts under ball-milling conditions. The researcher will assess catalyst stability, attrition resistance, structural integrity, and retention of catalytic activity following repeated mechanical stress and multiple milling cycles. Quantitative robustness metrics will be established, including mass loss, surface-area retention, and catalytic activity retention.
The expected outcomes are the synthesis and optimization of catalysts with enhanced mechanical stability and resistance to attrition, the establishment of standardized robustness criteria, and the development of next-generation durable catalysts suitable for continuous and large-scale mechanocatalytic processes. The research will also contribute to applications in polymer recycling and upcycling, supporting the development of sustainable and circular chemical processes.
The project includes two planned secondments. The first will take place at UNICA (4 months) and will focus on benchmarking mechanochemical catalyst synthesis against alternative synthesis methods, particularly for catalysts applied to polymer recycling and upcycling. The second will take place at Saint-Gobain (6 months) and will provide training in the synthesis and processing of stable materials under ball-milling conditions, with particular emphasis on mechanical stability and the development of materials suitable for scale-up
Where to apply
- E-mail: karine.vigier@univ-poitiers.fr
Requirements
- Research Field: Chemistry » Inorganic chemistry
- Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
The ideal candidate will hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Materials Chemistry, Nanotechnology, or a closely related discipline. A strong background in heterogeneous catalysis, inorganic materials, solid-state chemistry, or sustainable chemical processes is highly desirable.
The candidate should have practical experience in materials synthesis and physicochemical characterization, with knowledge or hands-on experience of techniques such as BET, XRD, XPS, TGA, and SEM. Previous experience with mechanochemical synthesis, ball milling, heterogeneous catalysts, metal oxides, solid acids, or catalyst testing will be considered an advantage.
Experience in polymer recycling/upcycling, particle or powder characterization, attrition testing, or the evaluation of material stability under mechanical stress would also be beneficial.
The candidate should demonstrate strong experimental, analytical, and problem-solving skills, together with the ability to work independently and effectively within a multidisciplinary and international research team. Good scientific writing and communication skills are expected, as well as the ability and willingness to work in both academic and industrial environments.
The successful candidate should be highly motivated by sustainable chemistry, mechanochemistry, catalyst development, and circular-economy technologies, and be willing to undertake the planned international and industrial secondments. Adaptability, scientific curiosity, teamwork, and a proactive approach to research are essential qualities for the position.
Specific Requirements
Doctoral candidates will spend time two secondments during their 36 month employment contracts. Anticipated secondments for this position are: UNICA (Italy) and Saint-Gobain
- Languages: ENGLISH
Additional Information
Benefits
- Cutting-edge research training in oligonucleotide-based therapies for rare diseases.
- First-hand experience in catalysis and mechanochemistry
- International, interdisciplinary, and intersectoral mobility, with secondments across Europe.
- Joint supervision by leading experts from academia and industry.
- Participation in international conferences, workshops, and transferable skills training.
- Competitive salary, mobility allowance following MSCA-DN funding rules.
An attractive salary in accordance with the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action regulations for doctoral candiates is offered.
Eligibility criteria
To apply for one of these PhD positions, the applicant must fulfil the following conditions at the day of recruitment:
- MSc degree. Candidates must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, chemical engineering or related fields. Candidates must not have been awarded a previous PhD degree.
- English proficiency: Applicants must have excellent English proficiency, at least B2 level (written and spoken).
Selection process
The selection process will be conducted in two stages:
- An initial interview will be carried out by the supervisors to shortlist up to two candidates for each Doctoral Candidate (DC) position.
- Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to a second interview with the Selection Committee, which will make the final recruitment decision.
Additional comments
The PhD title will be awarded by the University of Poitiers France
The desired research field for candidates is catalysis
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available: 1
- Company/Institute: IC2MP
- Country: France
- City: Poitiers
- Postal Code: 86000
Contact
- State/Province: France
- City: poitiers
- Website: https://ic2mp.labo.univ-poitiers.fr
- Street: 1 rue marcel doré
- Postal Code: 86073
- E-Mail: karine.vigier@univ-poitiers.fr
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