Description du sujet de thèse

Multi-layered and bi-functionalized mesoporous silica modified electrodes for possible applications in electrochemical energy storage or molecular electronics.
The aim of this project is to generate vertically-aligned, bi-functionalized mesoporous silica thin films by electrochemically assisted self-assembly in a multi-layer configuration. The ambition is to assemble different redox-active functions (e.g., metallocenes) in distinct layers and investigate the long-range charge transfer/transport reactions between them. We plan to elaborate two model
systems based on either bi-layer or tri-layer configurations sandwiched between two feeder electrodes and to investigate the interplay between electron transfer and associated mass transport phenomena. The targeted applications are respectively the current rectifiers (diodes) and the micro-batteries and/or pseudocapacitors.
Profile: applicants must have completed a Master degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or similar, with basic knowledge in electrochemistry, analytical chemistry, molecular chemistry and materials sciences, and willing to carry out experimental works. Interested and highly motivated candidates should submit a cover letter outlining their interest in the position, along with a complete
CV and contact details of academic referees.

Contexte de travail

The Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and Microbiology for Materials and the Environment (LCPME) is a multidisciplinary unit which focuses its research on the study of mineral and biological interfaces in aqueous environments. The main objective aims to better understand the reactivity of solid surfaces (mineral phases, organo-mineral hybrids, nanomaterials or biological objects) in contact with aqueous
media, with the desire to take into account the structural and reaction heterogeneities of the systems studied at different spatial scales, and with potential repercussions in the field of environment and materials. The unit combines disciplines relating to physico-chemistry (spectroscopies and electrochemistry) and microbiology (microbial interfaces and adhesion of microorganisms).
In term of facilities, the laboratory is equipped with a platform gathering various physico-chemical characterization techniques. To carry out the project, the student will have access to these tools, as well as to the necessary synthesis facilities and potentiostats for electrode preparation, characterization and application.