Postdoctoral researcher in chemical engineering (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to the deployment and optimization of the XSeaO2 floating demonstrator, an integrated platform for capturing and valorizing CO2 dissolved in aquatic environments, coupled with the production of e-fuels (methanol, DME) via thermochemical hydrogenation. The main missions include:

- Leading the development of installations: Supervising the design, assembly, and commissioning of key modules (electrolysis, electrochemical CO2 capture, catalytic reactor); Coordinating subsystems (floating photovoltaics, energy management, etc.).
- Performance optimization: Characterization and improvement of the catalytic reactor; Analysis of deactivation mechanisms; Experimental validation of kinetic models.
- Evaluation of key metrics: Energy efficiency; CO2 conversion; Selectivity toward methanol/DME.
- Carbon footprint assessment and techno-economic analysis.
- Project management and valorization: Writing technical reports and scientific publications; Participating in the dissemination of results (conferences, workshops) and seeking additional funding.

Activity

Experimental:
- Catalytic testing in fixed-bed reactors.
- Catalyst characterization (XRD, SEM-EDX, BET, He pycnometry, FT-IR).
- Product analysis using gas chromatography (GC-FID/TCD).

Modeling and Simulation:
- Use and improvement of the XSeaO2 pilot model (software: Aspen Plus, Python, COMSOL).
- Simulation of recycling scenarios (unconverted CO₂/H₂ loops) and energy integration (PV-electrolysis coupling).

Collaborative:
- Collaboration with teams from the Interdisciplinary Center E4C (IP Paris) and industrial partners.
- Potential supervision of students (Master's, interns) on sub-projects.

Your Profil

Skills

Expertise:
- PhD in Process Engineering, Heterogeneous Catalysis, or Sustainable Chemistry (ideally with experience in CO2 valorization).
- Proficiency in catalytic reactors (design, operation, data analysis) and characterization techniques (XRD, SEM, etc.).
- In-depth knowledge of reaction thermodynamics (CO2 hydrogenation, rWGS, methanol/DME synthesis) and chemical kinetics (LHHW models, parameter estimation).
- Experience in process modeling (Aspen Plus, Python, or equivalent) and techno-economic analysis.

Additional Assets:
- Experience with Power-to-X systems or electrolyzers (PEM, SOEC).
- Knowledge of decarbonization challenges (CCUS, RFNBO, European regulations).
- Skills in data science (optimization via genetic algorithms, Bayesian optimization, etc.).

Soft Skills:
- Autonomy and rigor: Ability to manage complex projects under technical and time constraints.
- Team spirit: Collaboration with diverse profiles (chemists, engineers, economists).
- Scientific English: Fluent level (writing papers, presentations).

Your Work Environment

The postdoctoral researcher will join a dynamic team within the CNRS, at the heart of the XSeaO2 project, a flagship initiative of the Institut Polytechnique de Paris aimed at developing an autonomous floating platform for capturing and valorizing CO2 dissolved in aquatic environments. This innovative project, at the intersection of catalysis, renewable energies, and process engineering, offers a stimulating work environment with access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, including pilot reactors, advanced analytical tools (GC, XRD, SEM, etc.), and close collaboration with academic and industrial partners. The research center fosters a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment conducive to innovation. The candidate will benefit from high-quality scientific supervision, with opportunities to participate in conferences and workshops in the fields of e-fuels and decarbonization.

Constraints and risks

Handling of pressurized gases (H2, CO2) and chemical products (methanol, solvents). Strict adherence to safety protocols.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

between €3,041.58 and €3,467.33 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

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