2 year Post-Doc - Mechanical Training of Gels Probed by Rheology, SAXS, and XPCS (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

The project aims to understand how controlled mechanical disturbances can modify and enhance the elastic properties of soft gels. The postdoctoral researcher will study the effects of “mechanical training,” defined as a mechanical stress strong enough to alter the material's properties without causing it to rupture.
The main objective will be to establish direct links between the mechanical history of the gel and changes in its mechanical, structural, and dynamic properties

Activity

Prepare and characterize various colloidal systems and soft gels.
Conduct rheological experiments combined with X-ray scattering (SAXS) and X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) techniques.
Develop protocols for mechanical testing of gels.
Analyze the mechanical, structural, and dynamic properties of materials during and after loading.
Process and analyze experimental data using coding (MATLAB).
Participate in experiments using large-scale instruments (synchrotron).
Present results at consortium meetings and international conferences.
Write scientific articles.

Your Profil

Skills

Ph.D. in soft matter physics, experimental physics, materials science, or a related field. Experience in rheology and/or radiation scattering techniques (SAXS). Skills in data analysis and scientific programming (Python, MATLAB, or equivalent). Interest in the physics of non-equilibrium systems and soft materials. Ability to work in an international collaborative environment. Good command of scientific English, both spoken and written. Skills in SAXS, XPCS, microscopy, or light scattering are a plus.

Your Work Environment

The position will be based at the Physics Laboratory of the ENS Lyon. The project is funded by a Franco-Austrian collaboration and is part of an international consortium bringing together complementary expertise in rheology, X-ray scattering, microscopy, and numerical simulation.
The candidate will have access to state-of-the-art experimental equipment and will participate in synchrotron measurement campaigns.

Constraints and risks

The project involves occasional travel within France and abroad for synchrotron experiments and to attend scientific meetings and conferences.
The experiments may require working irregular hours during measurement campaigns on large-scale instruments.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Starting from €3,071 gross per month, 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

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