BeFC SAS

Enzymatic oxygen/glucose fuel cells represent a major advance in the field of bioelectrochemical devices, combining enzymes and electrodes to convert the biochemical energy of glucose and oxygen into electricity. As a cleaner energy source, biofuel cells can be limited by different factors such as poor enzyme stability and short duration operations. Moreover, the advanced functionalisation of conductive materials and activation of biological catalysts remains at the lab-scale, and the development of pilot scale technologies is still in its infancy.

BeFC SAS, a CNRS spin-off incorporated in 2020, has leveraged the use of this new metal-free energy solution to power the next generation of smart and sustainable microelectronic devices, including smart logistics labels, health wearables, and single-use medical devices.

Substituting the use of conventional batteries (e.g., alkaline, lithium) with BeFC technology provides significant reduction in the environmental impact across the life-cycle assessment, particularly during the end-of-life (EoL) phase, where the majority of miniature batteries end up either in land-fill or are incinerated.

Via this R&D initiative, BeFC and DCM are looking to explore new opportunities to extend the performance of biofuel cell technology in terms of peak power, energy, longevity, and thermal stability.

The goal is to develop quasi-solid electrodes for the fabrication of glucose biofuel cells with increased stability and energy capacity. This project will rely on:

• the search for new and original enzyme combinations at the cathode and anode,
• the design of new membranes for the controlled generation and/or release of fuel and the fabrication of all-solid devices,
• new redox cathodes for increased performance and stability., The post holder will primarily be managed by the CNRS researchers, Dr. Alan Le Goff and Dr. Andrew J. Gross (BioCEN), and co-managed by Scientific Program Manager, Dr. Bilal DEMIR (BeFC). The successful candidate will be expected to, at times, work closely with other members of each respective team in order to deliver a successful project.

BioCEN: https://dcm.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr/research/bioelectrochimie-capteurs-lenergie-et-nanomateriaux

BeFC: https://www.befc.fr/

Staff management responsibility

A limited supervision of interns/apprentices may be required, however there is no expectation from the post holder to perform staff managerial duties.

Career and professional development activities

BeFC encourage and support the personal and professional development of our staff. Individual development needs will be identified through a regular review process.

Special conditions

The post will involve working at two different sites (BeFC and BioCEN). Contact with chemicals will be part of the role and Personal Protective Equipment will be provided as well as a Chemical Risk Training.

From time to time, the post holder may be asked to assist with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities. This will form part of a substantive role and no additional payment for these activities should be expected.

BeFC is looking for a PhD candidate (3 years) for a joint industrial thesis program (CIFRE) supported by a partnership with the Université Grenoble Alpes (with Dr Alan Le Goff and Dr. Andrew J. Gross) in the field of Biofuel Cells with a focus on electrochemistry and surface chemistry., The successful candidate will have a strong scientific interest and desire to develop expertise in electrochemical reactions associated with enzymatic biofuel cells.

1

Development of new catalytic (bio)surfaces for bio energy-based devices involving enzymes, polymers, redox molecules

2

Electrochemical characterisation

3

Studying physicochemical morphological characterisations

5

Data analysis and processing and communication of findings

6

Creation of technical reports, Graduate with a scientific background (Master degree or equivalent), Experience with conductive formulations/colloids or polymer formulations and crosslinking

X

Ability to perform electrochemical techniques (CV, CA, EIS, etc.)

X

Experience with (Bio)fuel cells and preparation of (bio)electrodes

X

Experience with material characterisation (UV-vis, AFM, XRD, SEM etc.)

X

Project management

X

Experience with quality management systems, Ability to work in a team and with partners when necessary

X

Analytical mindset

X

Organised, ability to work with efficiency and prioritise own workload

X

Translate complex and innovative ideas into clear, logical and technically accurate documents/presentations

X

Independent and self-motivated, especially for PhD research

X

Understanding of the English language, both written and oral