Missions

The objective of this research project is to provide an effective solution for scaling up photocatalysis (catalysis using visible light) in continuous flow systems for the synthesis of high-value-added molecules. This project is funded by CNRS Innovation, a funding body that supports projects with strong industrial and application potential.
The main mission of the recruited Research Engineer will be to carry out photocatalytic tests on metal complexes, identify optimal reaction conditions, and optimize the heterogenization of these compounds in order to develop a recyclable and more environmentally friendly version of these innovative photocatalysts

Activités

Main Responsibilities
Test and optimize various known photocatalytic reactions using our innovative photocatalysts, including the functionalization of nitrogen-containing molecules, the synthesis of biologically active compounds (notably artemisinin), and the alkylative decarboxylation of amino acids.
Graft metal complexes onto selected inorganic surfaces and characterize the resulting hybrid materials.
Optimize the grafting process and evaluate its impact on photocatalytic performance (efficiency, yield, reaction time), as well as its environmental footprint.
Assess the recyclability of the supported photocatalysts under continuous flow conditions.
Secondary Responsibility
Improve the synthesis of photocatalytic metal complexes, with a particular focus on developing environmentally friendly and sustainable synthetic routes.

Compétences

We are seeking a candidate holding a PhD in organic synthesis, preferably with a background in catalysis. Prior experience and/or strong skills in photocatalysis, coordination chemistry, and the heterogenization of metal complexes would be highly valued. A strong interest in applied chemistry and entrepreneurial initiatives would be a significant asset.
This multidisciplinary and application-oriented project will involve close collaboration with researchers from various fields. Therefore, we are looking for a candidate who is adaptable, collaborative, curious, and highly motivated. The ability to clearly present and defend research findings in meetings with diverse stakeholders will be essential.

Contexte de travail

The selected candidate will join the Catalysis, Polymers, Coordination and Modeling (CaPCoM) team within the Synthesis, Environment and Materials (SEM) department of the Institute of Molecular Chemistry of the University of Burgundy Europe (ICMUB), under the supervision of Dr. Audrey Beillard. The institute is internationally recognized for its expertise in coordination chemistry, and the CaPCoM team is particularly renowned for its work in catalysis.

ICMUB hosts the PACsMUB analytical platform, which provides access to state-of-the-art molecular chemistry characterization equipment. The institute also maintains strong collaborations with the ICB laboratory, enabling access to a wide range of solid-state analytical techniques.
This project is based on a close collaboration between ICMUB and the CEISAM laboratory in Nantes, which is responsible for the synthesis of organometallic compounds and for conducting tests under continuous flow conditions. Regular exchanges between these two CNRS research units (UMRs) are planned throughout the project.

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 recruited candidate will work in a ZRR (Zone à Régime Restrictif), a restricted-access area established to protect France's national scientific and technological potential. As such, access to the premises is subject to prior authorization. A security clearance procedure, which may take up to two months, must be completed before the candidate can physically access the laboratory facilities.