CNRS Ph.D. Student Fixed-Term Contract (M/F), in Catalysis and Bio-based Chemistry

Job Description

Thesis Subject

In chemistry, 90% of reactions involve the use of a catalyst, not only to accelerate the reactions but also to better control their selectivity. On an industrial scale, it is generally accepted in the fields of commodity and specialty chemicals that a catalyst's efficiency is on the order of 1,000 g of product per g of catalyst. Achieving these targets requires robust catalysts—ideally based on non-strategic metals—and regeneration processes that enable their long-term recycling. Catalyst regeneration is a delicate process that impacts the overall performance of a catalytic process, including in terms of CO₂ footprint, water consumption, energy use, and waste generation. The objective of this doctoral thesis is to explore high-frequency ultrasound technology (cavitation bubble generation) for the regeneration of coked catalysts, particularly those used in reactions involving bio-based substrates. The ultimate goal is to evaluate the potential for industrialization of this technology in the field of bio-based chemistry.
In this context, this thesis will be conducted in collaboration between IC2MP (CNRS, University of Poitiers), which brings its expertise in the field of bio-based chemistry and ultrasonics, and IFPEN, which brings its expertise in catalysis and industrial process development. In terms of methodology, and based on preliminary results obtained by the host laboratory, ultrasound technology will first be studied on model catalysts, then applied—in collaboration with IFPEN—to catalysts used on a larger scale in production units. Energy consumption, regeneration rates, and catalyst stability under ultrasonic conditions are key criteria that will be considered when evaluating the economic and environmental feasibility of this research project.
The candidate must hold a master's degree (or equivalent) and demonstrate solid knowledge in the fields of chemistry, catalysis, and engineering. A strong interest in project management and collaborating with industry would be a plus. The candidate is expected to be curious and imaginative in order to challenge the team and its partners, for example by proposing radically different approaches.

Your Work Environment

This doctoral research will take place at the University of Poitiers (IC2MP - https://ic2mp.labo.univ-poitiers.fr/) but is part of a broader project funded by France 2030 (PEPR EBIOCARB). The candidate will therefore be required to collaborate with other laboratories and industry partners within the consortium, particularly the UCCS in Lille.
This position falls under the category of “protection of scientific and technical potential” (PPST) and therefore, in accordance with regulations, requires that your arrival be authorized by the competent authority at the MESR.

Constraints and risks

Travel (1 to 2 days) should be expected to attend the various progress meetings of the consortium in which this dissertation is being conducted.

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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