Doctorate in Physics (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

The ecological transition of the construction sector is accompanied by an increasing use of bio-based and geo-based materials, recognized for their low environmental impact and their intrinsic hygrothermal regulation capabilities. However, a detailed understanding of their behavior under coupled temperature and humidity variations remains a major scientific challenge, limiting their optimal integration into civil engineering applications.
This PhD project aims to develop and implement innovative, non-destructive, and time-resolved methods based on Low-Field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (LF-NMR) to characterize, across multiple scales, the hydric and thermal properties of natural porous materials. The work will build upon recent advances achieved at the Navier Laboratory concerning the study of water dynamics in porous media [1,2].
Two main research directions will be pursued: (i) the integration of NMR cryoporometry to probe pore structure at the nanometric scale; and (ii) the investigation of moisture transfer under controlled thermal conditions in order to explore the interactions between pore structure and temperature.
The PhD candidate will participate in the development and validation of an LF-NMR cryoporometry setup operating under various thermal conditions, as well as in the characterization of water adsorption and desorption dynamics in natural porous materials such as wood, clays, and earthen materials subjected to different hygrothermal conditions.
The methodology will rely on dedicated NMR instrumentation (Bruker Minispec 20 MHz) with precise temperature control, the analysis of samples from the nanometric to the macroscopic scale, including the use of a portable NMR device for in situ measurements, and complementary techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP). The experimental results will contribute to the improvement of numerical models for coupled heat and moisture transfer through an integrated experimental–modeling approach.

References:
[1] B. Maillet et al., Langmuir (2022): hHps://doi.org/10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c01918
[2] M. Cocusse et al., Science Advances (2021): hHps://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.ab-
m7830

Keywords: LF-NMR, cryoporometry, natural porous materials, moisture transfer, hygrothermal properties, multi-scale characterization, heat and moisture transfer modeling.

Your Work Environment

This PhD project is part of the ANR JCJC THERMO-NMR project (Thermal and Hydric Characterization of Porous Materials Using LF-NMR: Advancing Sustainable Building Materials), starting in January 2026 and coordinated by Rahima Sidi-Boulenouar. The project aims to develop new methodologies based on Low-Field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (LF-NMR) for the multi-scale characterization of the hydric and thermal properties of natural porous materials used in sustainable construction.
The PhD will be carried out within the Rheophysics and Porous Media Team of the NAVIER Laboratory (CNRS UMR 8205, École nationale des ponts et chaussées, and Université Gustave Eiffel) in Champs-sur-Marne.

Constraints and risks

Experimental work involving the use of Low-Field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (LF-NMR) equipment. Compliance with safety regulations related to magnetic fields is required. Particular attention must be paid to individuals carrying active medical implants (pacemakers, defibrillators, etc.).

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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