Missions

The postdoctoral researcher will ensure the experimental development of an approach to the 3D characterization of organic crystals. The approach is based on thermo-microscopy, combined with multidirectional observation, allowing for in situ, 3D visualization of the crystal shape from a seed in the molten liquid. He/she will ensure the experimental characterization of the equilibrium and growth shapes of several organic crystals.

Activities

1. Experimental development for 3D characterization of crystal shapes:
- An existing thermal-optical-microscopy stage should be modified/improved allowing observation of the crystals along multiple axes, and thus the 3D characterization of the material.
- Establish and optimize experimental protocols.
- Check the performance of the instruments.
- Ensure the training and supervision of users.
2. Experimental characterization of the equilibrium shapes of several crystals (benzoic acid, menthol, 2-methyl-4-nitroaniline, succinonitrile-camphor alloys, neopentylglycol-camphor, …).
- Planning, technical responsibility, and implementation and monitoring of experiments.
- Experimental data analysis.
- Interpretation of Results.
3. Participation in the valorization and diffusion of results.
- Paper redaction.
- Writing of reports and technical notes in French and English, Drafting of experimental protocols and instruments user manuals.
- Presentation of the work in national/international conferences, and during project or team meetings.

Skills

The candidate must have knowledge of:
- Skills in scientific instrumentation: ability to adapt or modernize experimental setups and conduct experiments independently;
- Laboratory Metrology and Instrumentation, namely proficiency in experimental techniques in optical microscopy;
- General chemistry, solution chemistry, materials chemistry;
- Techniques of samples preparation, characterization and purification;
- Quality concepts applied to chemical analysis techniques;
- Storage and disposal conditions for chemicals;
- Mathematical and informatic tools required for the analysis of the results (knowledge of Python and Image J will be an asset);
- Health and safety regulations.
He/she shall:
- Be autonomous but able to work in interaction;
- Ability to analyze and process experimental data;
- Write technical documents ;
- Be able to communicate in French and English in the frame of national and international collaborations of the project.

Work Context

IM2NP is a joint research unit (UMR 7334) under the triple supervision of the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Aix-Marseille University (AMU) and the University of Toulon (UTLN). This large multidisciplinary institute, with about 300 people, is structured in 17 research teams gathered in 5 scientific departments which cover the whole chain of knowledge, from basic sciences (solid state physics, materials science) to devices, circuits and systems. The MCA team is specialized in the analysis of fundamental mechanisms and dynamic processes involved in the formation, selection and stability of solidification microstructures, segregation, grain structure and defects, in relation to the issues raised by industrial processes. This post-doctorate support was obtained on the framework of DISEQ project “In Situ Determination of the Equilibrium Shape of Organic Crystals”. Its aim is to explore, through an innovative experimental approach, the equilibrium shapes and growth patterns of organic crystals that are still difficult to access, due to the lack of suitable protocols. These shapes provide a means of understanding the anisotropy of surface energy and the attachment kinetics of atoms at the interface. This data is crucial for improving the numerical models aimed at simulating crystal morphologies and interfacial dynamics, as well as gaining a better understanding of the solidification mechanisms.

Constraints and risks

The typical risks associated to the position are those of any chemistry research laboratory (handling of strong acids and bases, organic solvents and compounds, inorganic compounds).

Additional Information

Applicants are invited to send a CV, a cover letter with the names of 2 referees.