Postdoctoral Position: Synthesis of Organic Fluorescent Probes and Functionalization of Quantum Dots for Herbicide Detection (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

This position is part of the ANR ASTRID project (ANR-21-CE04-0001), which aims to develop a sensitive, selective, and user-friendly method for detecting s-triazine-derived herbicides (e.g., atrazine), in accordance with European Union and WHO regulatory requirements.

The proposed approach relies on the design of selective organic fluorescent probes, their integration onto photoluminescent Quantum Dots (QDs), and their implementation within microfluidic devices for sensitive and portable detection.

The recruited postdoctoral researcher will primarily focus on the development of selective organic fluorescent probes through multi-step organic synthesis. Since the molecular design has already been completed, the work will mainly involve experimental implementation, optimization of synthetic routes, purification, and structural characterization of the synthesized compounds. The photophysical properties and molecular recognition capabilities of the probes will then be studied in solution to evaluate their performance for herbicide detection.

In a second phase, the synthesized fluorescent probes will be grafted onto semiconductor Quantum Dots to form hybrid nano-objects. The postdoctoral researcher will participate in the synthesis of Quantum Dots using established laboratory protocols, followed by their functionalization with the organic probes. The resulting nano-objects will be characterized, and their detection performance evaluated both in solution and on surfaces.

This work is part of an interdisciplinary and collaborative project. The postdoctoral researcher will also contribute to data analysis, scientific publications, and dissemination of results at national and international conferences.

Activity

• Multi-step organic synthesis of fluorescent probes based on dibenzanthracene platforms
• Development of synthetic strategies and yield optimization
• Structural and photophysical characterization of probes
• Synthesis and functionalization of metal chalcogenide Quantum Dots (CdSe, InP, etc.)
• Study of hybrid organic/inorganic nano-objects in solution and on surfaces
• Characterization of nano-objects (spectroscopy, microscopy, DLS, etc.)
• Evaluation of molecular recognition and detection properties
• Participation in writing scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals
• Presentation of results at national and international conferences (oral presentations and/or posters)
• Participation in laboratory scientific life and organization (stock management, waste management, equipment maintenance)

Your Profil

Skills

We are primarily seeking a candidate with strong expertise in organic synthesis and interest in molecular and supramolecular chemistry.
Profile
• PhD in organic chemistry, molecular chemistry, or physical chemistry with strong synthetic component
• Solid experience in multi-step organic synthesis
• Good command of purification techniques (chromatography, HPLC, etc.)
• Strong experience in structural characterization (¹H and ¹³C NMR, mass spectrometry, etc.)
• Experience with air-sensitive synthesis (Schlenk techniques) is appreciated
• Knowledge in fluorescence or spectroscopy is appreciated but not required
• Knowledge of nanomaterials or Quantum Dots is appreciated but not required
Scientific Skills
• Strong autonomy in organic synthesis
• Ability to design and optimize synthetic strategies
• Experimental rigor and proper laboratory notebook maintenance
• Data analysis and interpretation skills
Soft Skills
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team
• Scientific writing skills (English)
• Oral presentation skills
• Motivation for interdisciplinary research

Your Work Environment

This postdoctoral position is part of the ASTRID project funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR-21-CE04-0001). The project aims to develop microfluidic systems dedicated to the detection and quantification of s-triazine-derived herbicides.
The work will be carried out at the PPSM laboratory (ENS Paris-Saclay / Université Paris-Saclay), specialized in molecular chemistry, spectroscopy, and functional materials. The laboratory offers a multidisciplinary scientific environment and access to comprehensive instrumentation for synthesis and characterization, including spectroscopy platforms, microscopy facilities, NMR, inert atmosphere chemistry, and nanomaterials synthesis.
The team has recognized expertise in the development of fluorescent probes for environmental pollutant detection. A recent article on glyphosate detection has been submitted for publication and is available as a preprint on ChemRxiv:
https://chemrxiv.org/doi/full/10.26434/chemrxiv.15001283/v1
These results demonstrate the laboratory's ability to design and develop high-performance fluorescent probes for herbicide detection and highlight the strong scientific environment supporting this project.
The postdoctoral researcher will interact with academic partners of the project as well as laboratory members.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Gross monthly salary between €3,131.32 and €4,341.70, 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

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

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