Missions

The recruited postdoctoral researcher will contribute mainly to:
• The design, synthesis and characterization of finely tuned graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and/or GQDs hybrid materials as visible-light-active photocatalysts.
• The selective photocatalytic oxidation of 5-HMF into key intermediates such as FDCA and DFF.
And to a lesser extent to:
• The development of hybrid photo–bio catalytic systems
• The study of structure–activity relationships and system integration challenges in coupled photo- and biocatalysis

Activités

The transition toward sustainable chemical manufacturing requires innovative strategies to replace fossil-based processes with biomass-derived alternatives. Among key platform molecules, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) offers exceptional potential for the production of bio-based polymers, fuels, and fine chemicals. However, conventional catalytic oxidation routes remain energy-intensive and poorly selective.
The GQD-BIOCAT project proposes an original and integrated approach to 5-HMF valorization by combining photocatalysis and biocatalysis in a single modular reactor. The project focuses on the development of multi-catalytic hybrid materials (MCHMs), in which photocatalysts and enzymes will be co-immobilized on a common support.

Compétences

Applicants should hold a PhD in chemistry, materials science, or a related field, with a strong background in photocatalysis and (nano)materials chemistry. Good knowledge of English and scientific communication skills, oral and written skills. Sense of thoroughness, organization and initiative; capacity of synthesis; reactivity and autonomy.

Résultats attendus et contrôles

The researcher will collaborate closely with other members of the PEPR research project.

Contexte de travail

The Laboratoire Lorrain de Chimie Moléculaire (L2CM) is a joint research unit of the Université de Lorraine and the CNRS (UMR 7053), comprising around 40 permanent staff members and 20 PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Founded in 2018, the laboratory has been directed by Andreea Pasc (Professor, Université de Lorraine) since October 1st, 2021.

L2CM brings together expertise in organic and organometallic chemistry, coordination chemistry, catalysis, physical chemistry, and chemistry for life sciences. Its research is centered on molecules—discrete or self-assembled, multifunctional or stimuli-responsive—from synthesis to the study of their physical, chemical, and biological properties. The laboratory focuses on developing efficient and selective synthetic methodologies, exploring the reactivity of (earth-abundant) metals, and designing functional molecular or nano-scale systems that can be remotely controlled, notably by light.

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.