PhD positions

Title of the thesis: Sustainable and recyclable photoluminescent alkali lanthanide-free polyoxometalate salts for water detection

Start : October 2025

Context of the project : ANR Alps Water

Details (contact, profile, procedure) of the PhD project

 

Job offer for study engineer:

Study engineer (M/F) – Analysis of the physicochemical properties of materials

As part of a NORVACEL project (FEDER-Normandy Region) on the valorization of cellulose resources, the Polymers Biopolymers Surfaces (PBS) UMR 6270 CNRS laboratory and the Science and Separative Methods (SMS) UR 3233 laboratory of the University of Rouen Normandy are recruiting a study engineer for a period of 30 months.

The project aims to
- develop various cellulose-based formulations for extrusion
- develop and validate analytical procedures for the detection and quantification of NIAS, PFAS, and mineral oils (GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR)
- contribute to the understanding of the transfer and retention mechanisms of these compounds in polymer materials.

 

The main responsibilities will be:

- Participate in sample preparation
- Implement LC-MS and GC-MS analysis methods
- Optimize analytical protocols in collaboration with partner teams
- Ensure the processing, interpretation, and traceability of experimental data
- Contribute to the drafting of technical and scientific reports related to the project.

 

Desired profile

• Master's degree or engineering degree in polymer materials or analytical chemistry.
• Strong skills in analytical techniques (chromatography, mass spectrometry) and thermomechanical techniques (TGA, DSC, traction).
• Experience in sample preparation (extrusion, thermocompression) is desirable.
• Basic knowledge of organic contaminant analysis.
• Autonomy, experimental rigor, and the ability to collaborate across laboratories.
• Good writing and scientific communication skills.

 

Job Requirements

Contract: 30-month fixed-term contract
Salary: Based on current salary scale and candidate's experience
Location: Mont Saint Aignan, France

 

Application

Send a complete application (CV, cover letter, transcripts from your most recent degree, and two letters of recommendation) to kateryna.fatyeyeva@univ-rouen.fr and pascal.cardinael@univ-rouen.fr
Application deadline: 10/20/2025

 

The project will be carried out partly in restricted areas (ZRR) in France. An access authorization application will be submitted and must be validated by the relevant authorities before the candidate can access the laboratory.
Expected start date: November 2025.