(M/F - Postdoctoral researcher) Development of THz time-domain spectroscopy methods for solar energy conversion applications

Job Description

Missions

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) systems can perform the storage of solar energy into chemical bonds. They involve photoelectrodes composed of a semiconducting photoabsorbing layer coated on a conductive substrate. Operation of photoelectrodes involve a complex range of sequential physico-chemical processes: (i) light absorption by the photoactive layer, (ii) charge carrier generation, (iii) transport of photogenerated charge carriers in the layer and (iii) charge extraction at the interfaces and notably by the electrochemical process at the junction with the electrolyte. While light absorption properties and electrochemical kinetics can easily be studied by spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques, accessing the behavior of photogenerated charge carriers inside the semiconductor remains challenging, in particular under operating conditions. One approach to access the photoconductivity and charge carrier properties in illuminated systems is to measure the absorption of the semiconductor in the THz regime using THz time-domain spectroscopy spectroscopy (THz-TDS). The proposed project consists in developing a methodology for the study of photoelectrodes using (in-situ) THz-TDS. The project is part of the PEPR LUMA, which regroups a range of characterization platforms for the study of light-matter interactions on the French territory.

Activity

-The recruit will develop methods and protocols for photoconductivity measurements and data treatment using a Tera-K15 system from Menlo Systems equipped with a 740 nm femtosecond pulsed laser and two THz antennas (emitter and detector), as represented in Figure 1. The work will be mainly focused on data analysis on a range of photoelectrode samples, but will also involve participation in the design of a dedicated in-situ cell.

Your Profil

Skills

Expertise in optics and light-matter interactions. Experience with pulsed laser systems.

Your Work Environment

IRCELYON is a joint research unit between the CNRS and the University of Lyon that brings together expertise in heterogeneous catalysis from the Lyon region to form the largest catalysis laboratory in France and Europe. The laboratory comprises 115 permanent researchers from the CNRS and the University of Lyon, as well as a similar number of doctoral and postdoctoral students. IRCELYON, an academic research laboratory entirely dedicated to heterogeneous processes, focuses its research activities on sustainable development challenges.

What we offer:
- A stimulating work environment with close interaction among research staff.
- The option to work remotely (up to 2 days per week) depending on the nature of the work.
- An on-site cafeteria offering lunch at an affordable price.
- Partial reimbursement of transit passes (75%) + a sustainable mobility allowance.
- A location accessible by public transportation + private parking
- 44 days of vacation/RTT per year
- Financial contribution toward health insurance premiums.


This position falls under the Scientific and Technical Potential Protection (PPST) sector and therefore, in accordance with regulations, requires that your appointment be authorized by the competent authority at the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR).

This position falls under the Scientific and Technical Potential Protection (PPST) sector and therefore, in accordance with regulations, requires that your employment be authorized by the competent authority at the MESR.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

from 3071€ gross monthly depending on experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions