PhD offer in hybrid catalysis (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Within the framework of the PEPR B BEST project, we are seeking a motivated PhD student to conduct innovative research in the highly interdisciplinary field of hybrid catalysis. This project primarily aims to design, develop, and study a novel single-tope catalytic system that synergistically combines heterogeneous photocatalysis and enzymatic biocatalysis. The ultimate goal of this research is to apply this sustainable, dual-action system to biomass valorization, efficiently transforming renewable raw materials into high-value-added chemicals or biofuels. This highly multidisciplinary project draws on complementary expertise in nanomaterials chemistry, biocatalysis, and process engineering. The candidate will use a wide range of advanced analytical techniques to characterize the synthesized hybrid catalysts in detail and evaluate their application potential. At the crossroads of several scientific fields, this interdisciplinary approach will provide excellent training and significantly enhance the skills of the young researcher undertaking this work. The PhD student will specialize in materials science, physical chemistry, and biotechnology. Their main responsibilities will be: - Synthesis and characterization of catalysts: design of a robust hybrid system combining heterogeneous photocatalysts and enzymes. - Enzyme integration: selection, manipulation, and, where necessary, immobilization of enzymes to ensure their optimal function in association with the photocatalyst, without degradation. - Monotope system engineering: optimization of the reaction medium (pH, temperature, light intensity, solvent, etc.) to guarantee thermodynamic and kinetic compatibility between photocatalytic and biocatalytic cycles. - Product analysis: monitoring the biomass conversion process and quantifying complex reaction pathways using advanced analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, NMR, MS, etc.).

Your Work Environment

The primary host laboratory will be the Lorraine Laboratory of Molecular Chemistry (L2CM). The doctoral candidate will have a dedicated office and laboratory space at L2CM, within the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Lorraine in Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy. Part of the thesis will be conducted in close collaboration with the Charles Viollette Institute in Lille. To foster synergies and maximize the research impact, the project includes active collaborations with other renowned laboratories in France (particularly in Paris, Lille, and Montpellier) and internationally. Furthermore, a grant application will be submitted to fund research internships abroad. As a full member of the project consortium, the researcher will be expected to: - Participate in monthly progress meetings with project partners to present results and discuss next strategic steps. - Attend specialized thematic workshops to further develop their skills. - Present research results at major national and international scientific conferences throughout the duration of the contract. The doctoral candidate will be supervised by Dr. Robert Wojcieszak (L2CM) and Professor Renato Froidevaux (BioEcoAgro). This position falls under the National Scientific and Technical Potential Protection (PPST) sector. Therefore, in accordance with regulations, your appointment must be authorized by the competent authority of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR).

Constraints and risks

Any constraints

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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