Thesis offer in micro fluidics and geosciences M/F

Job Description

Thesis Subject

At CNRS, ISTO, the main objective of the thesis is to quantify the role of snap-off in residual trapping and to improve its prediction. The scientific questions addressed include the influence of the viscosity ratio between fluids, the role of pore network connectivity, and the possibility of detecting and quantifying these phenomena via a geoelectric response.

Your Work Environment

The use of the subsurface for environmental and industrial applications, such as geological CO₂ storage or aquifer remediation, involves complex multiphase flows in porous media. Despite their importance, the mechanisms controlling residual fluid trapping remain poorly understood, limiting our predictive capabilities at the scale of natural sites.
This thesis addresses this issue and aims to better understand the residual trapping of organic contaminants, particularly non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPLs), which are a major source of long-term groundwater pollution. A key mechanism of this trapping is snap-off, a phenomenon whereby the fluid fragments into droplets at pore constrictions.
The main objective of the thesis is to quantify the role of snap-off in residual trapping and to improve its prediction. The scientific questions addressed include the influence of the viscosity ratio between fluids, the role of pore network connectivity, and the possibility of detecting and quantifying these phenomena via a geoelectric response.

Methodology
The work will be based on an experimental approach combining:
- Microfluidics for geosciences (Roman et al., 2025), in order to observe flows at the pore scale, ranging from simple geometries (isolated constrictions) to complex pore networks;
- Image analysis and micro-PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) to characterize velocity fields and flow regimes;
- Integrated geo-electrical measurements on microfluidic chips, a pioneering technique developed at ISTO (Rembert et al., 2023);
- Comparison of experimental data with existing numerical models (Soulaine et al., 2021) and development of new snap-off criteria.

Candidate profile: Master's degree (or engineering school), training in engineering, geosciences, physics, or fluid mechanics. Interest in multiphase flows, microfluidics, and/or geophysical methods. Strong interest in research and laboratory work required.
Soft skills : rigor, scientific curiosity, editorial quality.
To apply, send CV, cover letter, contact(s) or reference letter(s), master's notes Orléans Institute of Earth Sciences (ISTO): the thesis will take place at ISTO, within a dynamic, interdisciplinary and international research environment. The doctoral student will work on the NanoµLab platform, in close interaction with other researchers, doctoral students and post-doctoral students.

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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