Apprentice (M/F) in Scientific Instrumentation and Data Science – Development of Operando Methods for Catalysis

Job Description

Missions

This position is part of the ANR NAUSYCAA project (2025–2029), which aims to develop high-entropy nano-alloy catalysts for CO₂ methanation. The project combines microfluidic synthesis of nano-alloy catalysts, evaluation of their catalytic performance, and their operando characterization using time-resolved infrared spectroscopy. The goal is to elucidate the correlations between catalyst structure and performance using advanced spectroscopy and environmental microscopy techniques.
Time-resolved infrared spectroscopy (TR-FTIR) plays a key role in this project, as it allows real-time monitoring of structural and chemical changes in catalysts or adsorbed reactants on their surface. This approach provides temporal resolution on the order of seconds, revealing reaction intermediates and catalytic mechanisms under real conditions. However, coupling it with other techniques, such as mass spectrometry, imposes strict constraints on acquisition synchronization, interference management, and multi-technique data integration.
In this context, the apprentice will be responsible for integrating and automating equipment (spectrometers, temperature controllers, gas distribution systems) within a dedicated acquisition platform. They will develop Python scripts for data acquisition and analysis, actively participate in operando infrared spectroscopy experiments, and contribute to the management of synchronized databases. The ultimate goal is to optimize the platform and evaluate its performance compared to manual methods, while developing skills in advanced scientific instrumentation and data science.

Your Profil

We are looking for a motivated Master's student (Year 1 or 2) with an interest in scientific instrumentation, automation, and data analysis in the fields of chemistry, physics, or applied computer science. The candidate should demonstrate rigor, autonomy, and teamwork to actively contribute to the development of an innovative operando platform.
Desired Skills and Qualities:
• Adaptability and ability to work in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Ability to work in an experimental setting and handle scientific equipment
• Ability to write technical reports and present results
• Proficiency with computer tools and data acquisition software
• Basic programming knowledge (Python is a plus)

Your Work Environment

Description of the employer

The Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) is a public research organization under the supervision of the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. Its 10 scientific institutes cover all fields of knowledge, including biology, physics, chemistry, engineering, humanities and social sciences, mathematics, ecology, information sciences, and universe sciences.
CNRS employs nearly 32,000 people, including over 11,000 researchers working in 1,144 laboratories across France. The 17 regional delegations (DR) of CNRS play a role in the management and local support of these research units, particularly in the field of Human Resources.
For more information, visit the CNRS website: www.cnrs.fr

Special conditions of exercise

• Laboratory work involving the use of scientific equipment
• Collaboration with researchers, engineers, and technicians in a multidisciplinary environment
• Occasional travel for training or collaboration with project partners

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

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

The research professions