Description du sujet de thèse

Solar energy is one of the most promising renewable resources to meet future global energy demands [1–2]. However, current technologies face several limitations, particularly due to low optical absorption coefficients and often insufficient quantum efficiency.
To overcome these challenges, structural engineering of photocatalysts has emerged as a relevant and innovative approach. Among the recent advances, the nanostructuring of photocatalysts into optical cavity architectures proves particularly promising [3].
This configuration enables optimal light absorption, leading to an increased generation of charge carriers. These carriers are essential for enabling redox reactions, such as water splitting or CO₂ reduction.
The efficiency of such reactions relies on the use of specialized structures that enhance the separation and mobility of charges. Therefore, designing photoactive materials with sophisticated architectures is considered a forward-thinking strategy with significant potential in the fields of sustainable energy and environmental technologies. The PhD program aims to develop a photocatalyst that contains a replica of a chiral nematic structure using a sustainable, innovative synthesis process, with respect to the Green Chemistry principles.[4,5] Moreover, a better comprehension of their properties will be achieved by coupling a full arsenal of complementary advanced analytical tools such as UV-visible spectroscopy, TRMC, XRD, XPS, SEM, EPR, and TEM. The materials were further evaluated for photocatalytic applications such as H2 generation or CO2 reduction.

Contexte de travail

The PhD thesis will be performed in the institut de chimie physique/université paris-saclay in collaboration with LPS and ICMMO

Informations complémentaires

You have a PhD degree in physics, physical chemistry, materials science, or a similar field with strong hands-on experience in semiconductor materials and device characterization. An experience in theoretical simulation is an advantage. The work requires a high level of experimental skills to operate sophisticated machines, an analytical mindset for interpreting measured data, and innovative experiments. You are a team player, and your strengths include taking personal responsibility, high motivation for innovation, excellence, and flexibility to work and deliver results. Good communication skills in English are required, while the knowledge of French is not mandatory.