Missions

As part of a new applied research program, ICGM, and in particular its “Macromolecular Materials Chemistry” department, is looking to recruit a contract researcher to contribute to the development of a new generation of electrical insulators with a thermosetting polymer matrix offering high thermal conductivity. These materials are intended for various functions within electric or electromagnetic motors, where thermal management is crucial. The approach adopted is based on the controlled incorporation of thermally conductive ceramic fillers into polymer matrices, while maintaining their electrical insulating properties.

Activités

I. Formulate one or more thermosetting polymer matrices suitable for high-temperature environments (T° above 200°C).
II. Characterize virgin and filled resins:
A. Rheology (viscosity vs. T°/shear)
B. Reactivity (e.g., DSC, gel time)
C. Glass transition, thermal stability (TGA, DMA, etc.)
III. Identify, qualify, and select ceramic mineral fillers:
A. Nature, shape factor, particle size.
B. Study of the trade-off between thermal efficiency and cost
IV. Study the effects of the physical nature of fillers (size, shape, specific surface area) on:
A. Rheological, mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of formulations
B. Dispersion stability (optical/electron microscopy)
V. Develop stabilization strategies:
A. Surface chemistry of fillers, addition of dispersing additives
B. Prevention of sedimentation before curing
VI. Characterize the fire behavior of formulations (UL, LOI, etc.).

Compétences

• PhD or engineering degree with significant experience (3 years) in at least one of the following fields:
o Thermosetting polymer chemistry
o Formulation of filled composites
o Materials science or process engineering applied to particulate systems or the use of (macro)molecules with improved thermal properties
• Proficiency in the following techniques:
o Rheology, DSC, TGA, DMA, analytical chemistry, thermal and electrical conductivity
o Dispersion and characterization techniques for fillers
o Formulation of epoxy, phenolic, bismaleimide, or similar systems
• Ability to manage multiple formulations and optimize their properties according to sometimes conflicting constraints (thermal conductivity vs. viscosity vs. dielectric properties).
• Familiarity with techniques associated with bulk or solvent-based chemical functionalization
The researcher (M/F) must demonstrate the following personal qualities:
• Autonomy and experimental rigor
• Strong critical analysis and data interpretation skills
• Proven scientific communication skills (written and oral)
• Ability to interact with academic and industrial partners

Contexte de travail

The R&D mission will be carried out mainly within the ICGM, which is subject to ZRR regulations.
Meetings with other project partners (academic or industrial) will be held regularly at their sites, and travel will therefore be required.

Le poste se situe dans un secteur relevant de la protection du potentiel scientifique et technique (PPST), et nécessite donc, conformément à la réglementation, que votre arrivée soit autorisée par l'autorité compétente du MESR.

Contraintes et risques

The researcher will work in a laboratory specializing in polymer chemistry and physical chemistry, involving frequent handling of chemical compounds (solvents, monomers, catalysts, cryogenic fluids, etc.)