Job offer

Postdoctoral Research Position (M/F) in Gas Sensing - Development of Membrane Materials Based on Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs). This project aims to develop high-performance gas sensors based on Metal Oxide Semiconductors (MOS) modified with MOFs, offering enhanced hydrogen detection capabilities - specifically high sensitivity and selectivity - along with low energy consumption and minimal maintenance requirements. Complementary approaches will be implemented, focusing on the development of various MOF structures integrated into micro-platforms.

• Synthesis of microporous MOF-based materials
• Shaping/forming of MOFs (thin films/membranes)
• Physicochemical characterization of materials (XPS, Raman, ellipsometry, QCM, nitrogen sorption, AFM, FTIR, TGA, XRD, SEM, TEM…)
• Application of computational methods for molecular simulations

The research will be carried out in the framework of ANR project at the Institut Européen des Membranes, Montpellier (IEM, CNRS, UMR5635, UM, ENSCM) under the scientific responsibility of Dr. Martin Drobek in the MCP cluster of the DM3 department. (https://iem.umontpellier.fr/en/dm3-en/)

PhD or equivalent

Research Field Physics

Education Level PhD or equivalent, The selected candidate (M/F) should be highly motivated to work independently within a multidisciplinary, collaborative research environment. They must demonstrate curiosity, strong organizational skills, and the ability to critically and constructively analyze results. Effective collaboration and open communication with other project members will be essential. The candidate (M/F) should also be able to present results clearly, concisely, and accurately, both orally and in writing, requiring excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

The candidate (M/F) must hold a PhD in Materials Chemistry and have solid experience in the field of microporous materials. In particular, familiarity with the synthesis, characterization, and properties of MOF-based materials is expected, with a strong focus on their applications in gas adsorption and separation.

A sound knowledge of (hydro)solvothermal synthesis methods for hybrid materials and their physicochemical characterization is essential, as is experience in producing such materials in membrane form. Experience in molecular simulation is also required. Prior work in gas sensing would be an asset.

Expected competencies:

• Materials chemistry, particularly hybrid materials based on MOFs
• (Hydro)solvothermal synthesis methods (both conventional and microwave-assisted)
• Material characterization techniques (XPS, Raman, nitrogen sorption, QCM, ellipsometry, AFM, FTIR, TGA, XRD, SEM, TEM…)
• Full proficiency in DFT (Density Functional Theory) and GCMC (Grand Canonical Monte Carlo) simulations
• Strong motivation to solve scientific challenges
• Excellent communication skills in both French and English (spoken and written) are essential