Post-Doc (M/F) : Coupling of enzymatic catalysis and photochemistry for epoxidation reactions

Job Description

Missions

Epoxy derivatives are key platform molecules with high chemical reactivity that can give rise to a wide variety of functional molecules of industrial interest, particularly in the field of polymers (plasticizers, polyols, epoxy resins, elastomers, etc.). They can be obtained from fossil resources or biomass; in the latter case, they offer greater potential. In their natural state, they are very scarce. They are most often synthesized by the epoxidation of unsaturated compounds in the presence of peracids/strong acids or epichlorohydrin on an industrial scale, or meta-chloroperbenzoic acid in the laboratory. In this project, we aim to develop alternative, milder, and more eco-friendly synthetic routes for epoxide derivatives based on terpenoid derivatives. To achieve this, we will combine photochemistry and chemo-enzymatic catalysis.

Activity

Synthesis and characterization of supported photocatalysts.
Enzymatic epoxidation.
Polymer synthesis.
Analysis and evaluation of synthesized products.
Presentation of results at scientific conferences.
Report writing.

Your Profil

Skills

Enzymatic catalysis.
Photochemistry.
Polymerization chemistry.
Physicochemical study of molecules and macromolecules (NMR; chromatography, HPLC, SEC; thermal analysis, TGA, DSC; …).

Your Work Environment

The Laboratory of Organic Polymer Chemistry (LCPO) is a joint research unit affiliated with the CNRS, the University of Bordeaux, and the Bordeaux Polytechnical Institute (http://www.lcpo.fr). The LCPO consists of five research teams and comprises nearly 150 people, including approximately 50 permanent staff members.

With over 40 years of experience in polymer chemistry, the LCPO's research aims to:
- develop innovative methodologies for the precision synthesis of polymers, notably using biomimetic approaches and/or principles of green chemistry
- develop functional polymer materials through macromolecular engineering and self-assembly, particularly in the fields of renewable materials, health, and energy
- establish lasting links with the socio-economic sector.

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Frédéric Peruch and Stéphane Grelier within LCPO Teams 1 and 2. He or she will be part of a project funded by CNRS Chemistry. He or she must hold a Ph.D., preferably with expertise in polymer science and photochemistry.

Team 1, titled “Catalysis and Polymerization Engineering,” is led by Frédéric Peruch.
The team develops alternative strategies for the synthesis of “custom-made” polymers, with a focus on:
- the design of activation or catalytic systems for highly selective polymerization reactions
- the development of recyclable, bio-inspired catalytic nanoreactors operating in aqueous media
- the engineering of polymers, nanoparticles, or nanostructures for targeted functions and applications.

Team 2, titled “Biopolymers and Bio-based Polymers,” is led by Henri Cramail.
The team is developing the use of bio-resources for polymer synthesis, with the following main focuses:
- the use of (modified) vegetable oils as monomers
- the production of polymerizable synthons from lignocellulosic biomass

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

3041 € à 4216 € Monthly gross salary based 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