Missions

Proton-conducting ceramic cells (PCCCs) are emerging as promising candidates for efficient and sustainable energy conversion and storage devices, such as protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) and electrolysis cells (PCECs). The performance and durability of these devices are critically dependent on the electrochemical activity and stability of the air electrode (cathode). Surface modification via acid-base infiltration is a powerful strategy to enhance catalytic activity, improve stability, and reduce polarization losses.

Activities

The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team at the Institut des Matériaux de Nantes Jean Rouxel (IMN) and will focus on the development and characterization of air electrodes for PCCCs. The main objective is to investigate the impact of acid-base surface infiltration on the electrochemical performance and long-term stability of air electrodes. The project will involve:
• Synthesis and characterization of proton-conducting ceramic materials and composite electrodes.
• Development and optimization of acid-base infiltration protocols for surface modification.
• Electrochemical characterization (impedance spectroscopy, polarization curves, stability tests).
• Structural and microstructural analysis (XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, etc.).
• Collaboration with national and international partners for advanced characterization and device testing.

Skills

Candidate Profile
• PhD in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in ceramic materials, electrochemistry, and/or surface science.
• Experience with materials synthesis, electrochemical characterization, and advanced analytical techniques.
• Knowledge of proton-conducting ceramics and/or solid oxide cells is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills in English (both written and oral).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Work Context

The IMN is a join research laboratory between Nantes University and CNRS is a leading research institute in materials science, with state-of-the-art facilities for materials synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical testing. The successful candidate will benefit from a stimulating scientific environment and access to cutting-edge equipment.
The candidate will work in the frame of the Horizon Europe project PEPPER and will collaborate with a large european consortium. Therefore, they will work with the different partners of the project, attend the project meeting, and communicate their results at international conferences and in peer review journals.

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.