PhD position (M/F) in chemistry and physical chemistry of materials: nanothermometry by electron paramagnetic resonance

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Title: Multipoint In Situ NANOthermometry by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance

Profile Sought:
We are seeking a candidate with a Master's degree in materials chemistry, physical chemistry, or nanoscience, with strong experience in nanoparticle synthesis and spectroscopic characterization techniques (EPR, UV-visible). The ideal candidate will combine experimental rigour, scientific curiosity, and a keen interest in physical measurements and data analysis at the interface of chemistry and physics.

Context:
Nanothermometry, which aims to measure temperature with high precision at the nanoscale, is a major scientific and technical challenge. While existing tools (such as luminescence, temperature-sensitive catalytic, or homolysis reactions) enable temperature measurement, they do not allow simultaneous mapping of thermal gradients within and around nanoparticles. This limitation hinders our understanding of heat transport mechanisms. However, this capability is essential for studying “hot spots”, which are ultra-localised temperature increases generated under external stimulation (light, magnetic field, etc.). These phenomena, which are crucial for applications in biology and medicine, catalysis, or polymerisation, remain poorly characterised due to the lack of methods capable of mapping temperature variations at multiple points on the nanoscale.

Objectives:
This PhD project aims to develop an innovative multipoint nanothermometry method using Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR). The goal is to measure, in situ and with nanometric resolution, thermal gradients at the core of nanoparticles, at their interface, and in their immediate environment, using multiple distinct EPR probes strategically positioned. The project will involve the synthesis of functional nanomaterials (Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles incorporating these probes) and advanced physical measurements under laser irradiation. The challenge will be to overcome current technological limitations in precision and resolution while elucidating nanoscale heat transport mechanisms. This work will enable a rigorous study of “hot spots” and open perspectives for applications in biology, medicine, catalysis, and polymerisation.

Your Work Environment

This thesis will be carried out within the Department of Chemistry and Molecular Materials at the Institut Charles Gerhardt in Montpellier, under the supervision of Researcher Gautier FELIX and Professor Joulia LARIONOVA.
The work will be conducted in collaboration with the Magnetism Service of the UAR Chimie Balard.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

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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