Description du sujet de thèse

The recruited PhD candidate will join the Institut de Chimie des Milieux et Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP, UMR CNRS 7285) within the SAMCat group.
As part of the ANR-funded ZENITH project, the objective is to develop a new generation of photocatalysts based on carbon nitride derivatives for sustainable solar hydrogen production via water photolysis. The innovative approach relies on the use of zeolites as sacrificial templates to obtain structured carbon nitrides. These materials are expected to combine very high surface areas, controlled microporosity, and a high density of defects, thereby enhancing both visible-light absorption and photogenerated charge separation.
The PhD candidate will investigate the synthesis of these innovative materials by CVD within selected zeolite templates, their advanced characterization (textural, structural, spectroscopic, and optoelectronic), and their evaluation in solar photocatalysis for hydrogen production. The main goal is to identify the key parameters (zeolite structure, texture, composition) that optimize the properties of the photocatalysts and to demonstrate their efficiency in solar-to-hydrogen conversion.
Main missions
• Design the setup for the synthesis of carbon nitrides
• Multi-step synthesis of carbon nitrides
• Material characterization (XRD, gas physisorption, electron microscopy, IR, Raman, solid-state NMR, etc.)
• Photocatalytic testing (at CEMHTI, CNRS Orléans)
• Supervision of Master's students (M1/M2)
• Presentation of results at consortium meetings
• Preparation of bibliographic and progress reports

Contexte de travail

The PhD candidate will be hired by the CNRS and integrated into the SAMCat team at IC2MP in Poitiers.
IC2MP is a joint research unit between CNRS and the University of Poitiers, internationally recognized for its expertise in materials chemistry, catalysis, and sustainable processes.
The SAMCat group focuses on the development of innovative catalysts and materials to tackle current energy and environmental challenges. Its research combines the synthesis of porous and hybrid materials, heterogeneous catalysis, and the study of structure–property–performance relationships.
The candidate will benefit from a stimulating research environment at the crossroads of material synthesis, advanced characterization, and catalytic applications. As part of the project, research stays will also be carried out at CEMHTI (CNRS Orléans) to perform specialized photocatalysis measurements and complementary characterizations.

Contraintes et risques

Standard chemical laboratory risks.
Compliance with all health and safety regulations of the host laboratory.
Occasional travel in France or abroad may be required.

Informations complémentaires

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Inorganic Chemistry (or a closely related discipline).
The successful candidate should demonstrate motivation and enthusiasm to conduct a research project that bridges fundamental studies and first applications. Strong ability to work independently as well as within a multidisciplinary team is required. We seek a candidate who is curious, problem-solving oriented, and motivated to develop innovative approaches with creativity, initiative, and scientific rigor.
Interested candidates are invited to send:
• a motivation letter specifying their interest in this PhD topic,
• a detailed CV,
• one or two recommendation letters.