Missions

As part of the ANR 2Dfects project, the postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for the surface functionalization of MXene-type materials whose reactivity has been previously increased by irradiation or ion implantation. Inert or electroactive molecules will be grafted onto the surface of the MXenes, and the modified materials will be analysed using various physicochemical techniques. A significant part of the mission will be dedicated to the shaping of electrodes, which will be characterized using various electrochemical techniques, possibly coupled with other analytical techniques to perform in-situ or operando observations. Different electrolytes will be used to validate applications in aqueous environments or in LI-ion or Na-ion batteries.

Activities

Main tasks:
- Functionalization of MXene surfaces using chemical or electrochemical methods
- Chemical and microstructural characterization using various techniques (SEM, EDX, XPS, Raman, FTIR, etc.)
- Electrochemical characterization
- Implementation of operando/in-situ characterization for the study of electrode/electrolyte couplings.
Additional activities:
- Supervision of interns working on part of the project
- Writing reports and presenting work at monthly meetings
- Writing scientific articles and/or patents

Skills

- The candidate must have a PhD in materials chemistry and/or electrochemistry, related to energy storage systems or surface functionalization.
- Motivation, creativity, autonomy, rigor, teamwork.
- Spoken and written English

Work Context

The ANR 2Dfects project brings together three French laboratories. It aims to develop irradiation (Ir) and ion implantation (Im) methods as new approaches to structural and chemical engineering for two-dimensional sheets of transition metal carbides (MXenes). The goal is to enhance their reactivity and profoundly modify their properties. MXenes form a large family of 2D systems whose range of physicochemical properties suggests a wide variety of applications. These surface modifications should make it possible to achieve new functionalities compared to conventional chemical methods or to dope the sheets with elements of interest. The impact on properties will focus on the optical, electrical, and charge storage properties of MXenes. Combined, these properties pave the way for flexible conductive electrodes or transparent supercapacitors, which are key components for new electronic devices.

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.

Constraints and risks

Standard risks associated with a research project in the field of materials science and chemistry.
Travel: As this is a collaborative project, short stays at partner laboratories will be necessary. Trips lasting a few days for meetings and conferences (possibly abroad) are also planned.