Description du sujet de thèse

The thesis subject concerns the design, realization and interpretation of X-ray diffraction experiments in operando conditions on innovative nanocatalysts for energy conversion (fuel cells, electrolysers) developed within the Charles Gerhardt Institute of Montpellier (ICGM, Montpellier, France). This project is based on a close collaboration between the ICGM and the ID31 beamline of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF, Grenoble, France). At the interface between the laboratory scale and the technological application, the objective of the thesis consists in revealing the structural parameters and mechanisms governing the activity and the durability of promising nanocatalysts for the deployment of more efficient and durable electrochemical systems.
Based on the expertise and capacity of the ICGM to provide nanocatalysts of high scientific interest, and privileged access to the ESRF beamline ID31, the PhD student will be invited to conduct research on different types of crystalline nanomaterials aimed at different electrode systems (reduction/evolution of oxygen, oxidation/evolution of hydrogen in acidic and alkaline medium. A training period in the form of a 6-12 months (duration to be defined according to the candidate) at ESRF Grenoble during the duration of the thesis will allow the acquisition of a solid and sought-after profile of expertise in advanced characterization techniques. Such training period will be followed by several shorter visits within the framework of carrying out experiments.

Contexte de travail

The thesis will be carried out mostly at the ICGM, but significant time will be spent at the ESRF.
ICGM is a joint research unit between the CNRS, the University of Montpellier and the ENSCM. The "Electrochemistry for Energy" thematic group studies and develops key materials for various electrochemical energy conversion processes, including batteries, electrochemical supercapacitors, fuel cells and electrolyzers. With regard to fuel cells, the laboratory is internationally recognized for its work on innovative membranes and catalysts for proton-conducting membrane fuel cells, ranging from the synthesis of new materials to their integration into fuel cells.
The ESRF is the world's brightest X-ray source and a centre of excellence for fundamental and innovation-driven research in condensed and living matter science. Located in Grenoble, France, the ESRF owes its success to the international cooperation of 21 partner countries. Each year, the demand to use these X-ray beams increases and near to 9000 scientists from around the world come to Grenoble, to “beamlines”, each equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The PhD thesis will be conducted under the supervision of :
Dr Raphaël Chattot (Associate researcher at CNRS, ICGM)
Dr Frederic Jaouen (Director of research at CNRS, ICGM)
Dr Jakub Drnec (Beamline Scientist, ID31, ESRF)

Contraintes et risques

An excellent level in English and solid knowledge of programming (MATLAB, Python) are mandatory. Good mobility between Montpellier and Grenoble is also essential.
This position is located in a sector covered by the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST) and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival be authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.