(M/F) PhD student in catalysts synthesis and performance testing

European Commission; France; Sur place; EUR 30 000 - 40 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading research laboratory in France seeks a First Stage Researcher to work on innovative nano-HEAs. The candidate will develop synthesis methods, evaluate catalytic performance, and carry out advanced experimental investigations. This role offers comprehensive training in physicochemistry and hands-on research experience, essential for aspiring researchers. Applications are open until August 22, 2025, for a full-time temporary contract starting on January 1, 2026.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of physicochemistry principles.
• Familiarity with advanced experimental techniques.
• Motivation for hands-on research.

Responsabilités

• Develop continuous flow synthesis methods for nano-HEAs.
• Evaluate catalytic performance in CO2 methanation reactions.
• Conduct operando investigations using advanced techniques.

Connaissances

Hands-on experimentation

Understanding of physicochemistry

Research skills

Formation

Degree in Chemistry, Physics, or related field

Outils

Electron microscopy

Spectroscopy techniques

Description du poste

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Organisation/Company CNRS Department Laboratoire de Réactivité de Surface Research Field Chemistry Physics Technology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Country France Application Deadline 22 Aug 2025 - 23:59 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 35 Offer Starting Date 1 Jan 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

High Entropy Alloys (HEAs) represent a class of metal alloys distinguished by their unique composition, comprising five or more elements in nearly equimolar ratios. These alloys have shown remarkable performances in various domains. Recent attention has shifted towards nanoscale HEAs (nano-HEAs), due to their exceptional structural and chemical properties, particularly in catalytic applications. However, the complex composition of nano-HEAs, responsible for their remarkable properties, also implies a complex landscape to fundamentally understand the origin of the catalytic performances.
The team just started a pioneering project to capitalize on the recent advances regarding catalytic properties of nano-HEAs, with the following objectives:
1. Developing a continuous flow synthesis method for the production of nano-HEAs.
2. Evaluating the catalytic performance of nano-HEAs in the CO2 methanation reaction.
3. Perform operando investigation using state-of-the-art experimental techniques to link structural and chemical properties of the nano-HEA to their catalytic properties.
Nano-HEAs have demonstrated potential as heterogeneous catalysts, particularly in the CO2 methanation reaction — a key process in Power-to-Gas technology which aims at providing long term storage for hydrogen applications. Despite facing challenges such as kinetics and stability, nano-HEAs exhibit enhanced activity, selectivity, and stability compared to traditional catalysts. Our research aims to overcome existing hurdles in nano-HEA synthesis and characterization. We seek to develop rational synthesis methods that offer reproducible control over NP composition, size, and distribution. Additionally, we aim to qualify and quantify the nature of nano-HEAs at the nanoscale, employing advanced electron microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Finally, the catalysts will be probed in operating condition (operando) using X-ray absorption spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction on particle accelerators using synchrotron radiation.
This project presents an opportunity tailored for a student seeking comprehensive training in physico-chemistry, complete with exposure to cutting-edge experimental developments and apparatus. The candidate should possess a solid understanding of physicochemistry principles, and an appeal for hands-on experimentation.