A joint computational/experimental postdoctoral research position is available in the group of Dr Chris Ewels (Physics Nanomaterials Group at the Institute of Materials Jean Rouxel, Nantes) in collaboration with Dr Ferdinand Hoff (Nanotube and Graphene team at the Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, Bordeaux). The post will run for 12 months, with possible renewal for a further 12 months. For the first 12 months the candidate will be based in Nantes with regular visits to Bordeaux.

The project is developing a new way to use graphite intercalation processes to produce charged graphene layers in solution.  These layers will be stabilized in organic media under exclusion of oxygen/water (C. Valles, et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2008), and can serve as a chemical platform to graft metal nanoparticle onto the carbon framework, (F.  Hof et al., Chem Eur. J., 2018).  Related composite materials have been found to be excellent electrocatalysts (F. Hof et al., Chem Eur. J. 2017).

The successful candidate will simulate various intercalation compounds using DFT approaches (and possibly later empirical molecular dynamics), exploring co-intercalation of solvents, and their possible dissolution in organic solvents. In a next step the gained theoretical knowledge will help drive novel experimental approaches in the lab. 

Scientific environment: The CRPP lab is a joint research unit between CNRS and Université de Bordeaux. The lab has an interdisciplinary focus and the main research interested is directed towards the understanding of soft matter phenomena.  The IMN is one of France’s largest materials science research laboratories, based in the north of Nantes city centre, a vibrant city in the West of France.  The lab develops new materials for energy storage, capture and conversion, as well as exploring the underlying fundamental physics of nanoobjects and nanomaterials.  The group has around 20 years experience in nanocarbon modelling (for full publication list see http://www.ewels.info).

Applicant Profile:

• An excellent background in materials physics / physical chemistry / nanoscience.
• Experience of DFT-based atomic-scale modelling is essential. Modelling of nanocarbons a bonus.
• Knowledge in Schlenk line techniques, working with air sensitive components, X-ray techniques are a bonus (if not, a willingness to learn these techniques “on the job”).
• Written and spoken fluency in English.  French is an advantage but not essential.

• A desire to travel would be appreciated (regular travel between Bordeaux and Nantes will be essential, and there are likely to be other research visits possible)

• A strong sense of curiosity and exploration, preferring to try and fail sometimes rather than “sticking to the path”.

Candidates should send a covering letter explaining why they are interested in the post, along with a comprehensive CV, to [email protected] and [email protected]. “Standardised letters” not specific to this post will not be considered. There are no restrictions to applying based on nationality, and we are a committed equal opportunities employer.  Interviews will be before Christmas, aim is to get a candidate into post 1st of February 2019 or as soon as possible after that.