Postdoctoral researcher (M/F) on the optical properties of atmospheric microplastics and their applications to remote sensing
New
- Researcher in FTC
- 7 months
- Doctorate
This offer is available in English version
This offer is open to people with a document recognizing their status as a disabled worker.
Offer at a glance
The Unit
Laboratoire d'optique atmosphèrique
Contract Type
Researcher in FTC
Working hHours
Full Time
Workplace
59655 VILLENEUVE D ASCQ
Contract Duration
7 months
Date of Hire
18/01/2027
Remuneration
Between 3071,50 € et 3501,51 € gross per month, depending on experience
Apply Application Deadline : 16 November 2026 23:59
Job Description
Missions
The Laboratoire d'Optique Atmosphérique (LOA) at the University of Lille is offering a
postdoctoral position focused on investigating the optical properties of atmospheric microplastics and their applications to remote sensing. These particles, recently recognized as an emerging component of atmospheric aerosols, have optical properties that remain poorly understood, limiting our knowledge of their radiative impacts and the potential for their remote detection. The project aims to improve their characterization through laboratory measurements and numerical simulations, particularly within the framework of the MAPS project (Microplastiques Atmosphériques Par Satellite; PNTS). The research may also extend to the optical properties of ice crystals, particularly in the infrared spectral region, to explore the potential for distinguishing these different types of particles using hyperspectral observations, especially in the context of the FORUM and IASI-NG satellite
missions. More broadly, this work aims to improve our understanding of the interactions between atmospheric particles and radiation, as well as their representation in climate models and the interpretation of satellite
observations.
Activity
The successful candidate will primarily contribute to the analysis of experimental data aimed at characterizing the spectral optical properties of atmospheric microplastics. Particular emphasis will be placed on measurements performed at the SOLEIL synchrotron facility, especially for determining the complex refractive indices of different polymer types. This work may be complemented by the analysis of measurements from other laboratory experiments, including those conducted in atmospheric simulation chambers. The activities may also involve new experimental studies of the optical properties of airborne microplastics, as well as the use and
development of light-scattering and atmospheric radiative transfer models. In addition, the successful candidate may continue research on the optical properties of ice crystals, particularly to investigate their spectral signatures and explore the potential for distinguishing them from those of microplastics in hyperspectral atmospheric
observations, in connection with the FORUM and IASI-NG satellite missions.
Your Profil
Skills
• PhD in physics, optics, atmospheric sciences, or a related field.
• Knowledge of spectroscopy and the optical properties of materials or particles.
• Experience in the analysis and processing of experimental data.
• Knowledge of radiative transfer modeling and/or atmospheric remote sensing would be an advantage.
• Good written and spoken English.
• Proficiency in a scientific programming language (Python, MATLAB, Fortran, etc.).
Your Work Environment
The successful candidate will be based at LOA, within the “Clouds and Radiation” research group. Close collaborations are planned with the teams at the SOLEIL synchrotron facility for the analysis of spectroscopic measurements. Additional collaborations may be developed with teams working at the CESAM
atmospheric simulation chamber (Université Paris-Est Créteil), the Institut Lumière Matière (iLM, Lyon), and the PC2A laboratory (University of Lille).
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
Between 3071,50 € et 3501,51 € gross per month, depending on experience
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
| Offer reference | UMR8518-MARLIE-026 |
|---|---|
| CN Section(s) / Research Area | Earth System: superficial envelopes |
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.
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