Postdoctoral Position (M/F) at the Institute of Biosciences and Biotechnology in Aix-Marseille

Job Description

Missions

Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a biogeochemical process involving the precipitation of carbonate crystals in the local environment of metabolically active microorganisms [Hoffmann et al. Microbiology 2021]. Several metabolic pathways can induce carbonate mineral precipitation in microorganisms; one such example is the enzymatic hydrolysis of urea, which ultimately produces ammonium and carbonate ions and creates conditions favourable for calcium carbonate crystal formation. Extensive precipitation of carbonate minerals in the vicinity of microorganisms in soils can promote sediment particle adhesion, thereby reducing porosity and improving material strength. For these reasons, MICP has emerged as a viable and scalable biotechnology for soil and structural material (e.g., concrete, granite) reinforcement, as well as for the remediation of heavy metals. One of the main challenges associated with this technology is the non-uniform distribution of microorganisms and nutrients within heterogeneous porous media (e.g., packed sediment particles), which can result in ineffective crystallization throughout the targeted zone.

Activity

This project aims to improve the homogeneity of bacteria-induced calcium carbonate precipitation within micro- and millifluidic environments by investigating the influence of select biopolymers and medium formulations on bacterial and nutrient transport. Fluidic layers will be designed to simulate relevant sediment grain packing for MICP studies. Mineral precipitation will be monitored over time under different experimental conditions. The resulting mineral products, prepared from tested MICP formulations at the beaker scale, will be characterized in terms of their structural properties and chemical composition. This research is part of the international project (ANR-DFG) “OPTIMIC” involving French partners Dr. Dorian Davarzani (BRGM) and Dr. Sophie Sablé (La Rochelle University), as well as a German partner.

Your Profil

Skills

A strong multidisciplinary background will be advantageous for the position. The interested candidate should have a PhD with scientific training in chemistry or materials science. Expertise in one or several of the following skills are considered assets: confocal microscopy (Raman, fluorescence), electron-based microscopy, X-ray-based imaging, diffraction and spectroscopy, micro-/millifluidic device design and operation, image/video analysis, bacteria cultivation and manipulation.

Your Work Environment

The project will be conducted within the Molecular and Environmental Microbiology (MEM) team at the Bioscience and Biotechnology Institute of Aix-Marseille (BIAM), located in Cadarache, France. The BIAM is a mixed research unit composed of the CNRS, CEA and Aix-Marseille Université (AMU). The postdoctoral researcher will take part and lead interdisciplinary laboratory tasks including bacteria cultivation, microfluidic device preparation and experimentation, imaging and characterization of MICP mineral products. The project will involve measurements at synchrotron radiation facilities and visits to collaborating research groups.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

from €3,041.58 to €4,668.21 gross per month

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

The research professions