PhD Thesis Position M/F - PhD position in Materials Chemistry

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Synthesis and Structural Characterization of High-Entropy Oxide Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Applications

High-entropy oxides (HEOs) are an emerging class of multicomponent materials with highly tunable physicochemical properties. They hold great potential for the development of next-generation photocatalysts, particularly for water remediation.
The NHEOCAT project aims to develop a new generation of nanosized HEO-based photocatalysts for water treatment, with controlled composition, structure, and properties. The project focuses on transition-metal-based spinel-type HEOs.
This PhD thesis is part of the ANR JCJC NHEOCAT project. The first part of the thesis will focus on the development of innovative liquid-phase synthesis routes to produce nanosized HEOs. The second part will be dedicated to investigating the formation mechanisms and local structure of the synthesized HEOs. To this end, an advanced multi-technique characterization strategy will be implemented, combining laboratory-based and synchrotron techniques, including X-ray-based techniques and electron microscopy.
The final part of the thesis will focus on evaluating the photocatalytic performance of the synthesized particles through the degradation of model organic pollutants under visible-light irradiation.
The overall objective of the thesis is to establish relationships between synthesis, structure, and functional properties (photocatalytic activity) of the resulting HEOs. This work will contribute to opening up new perspectives for the design of advanced materials for environmental and energy applications.

Candidate Profile
Education: Master's degree (M2) or equivalent in inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry, materials science, nanomaterials, or a related field.
Technical skills: Experience in the synthesis and characterization of inorganic nanomaterials using liquid-phase methods ; Knowledge of high-entropy materials

Personal qualities: Experimental rigor and strong organizational skills; Ability to work independently; Creativity and ability to propose innovative solutions; Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for data interpretation

Your Work Environment

The PhD candidate will be based at the Laboratoire des Sciences des Procédés et des Matériaux (LSPM). LSPM is a CNRS research unit located on the Villetaneuse campus of Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, within the Institut Galilée.

LSPM is a research laboratory conducting both fundamental and applied research on the development of advanced processes and materials. The laboratory's distinctive features are, on the one hand, its multidisciplinary approach (process engineering, materials mechanics, physics, and chemistry) and, on the other hand, its aim to understand macroscopic properties through the characterization of phenomena occurring at the smallest scales (the nanometer scale).

At LSPM, the PhD candidate will carry out experimental work on the synthesis of nanopowders in dedicated, fully equipped facilities, including the use of a synthesis reactor developed as part of the project. The PhD candidate will use a range of characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction and total X-ray scattering, scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), Raman and infrared spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy, thermal analysis, elemental and chemical analyses, and other complementary techniques. Research stays at the SOLEIL synchrotron DIFFABS beamline will provide the opportunity to perform advanced in situ multi-technique experiments combining X-ray diffraction, total X-ray scattering, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

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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