PhD Student (f/m) on ID31 in the Structure of Materials group

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France.

Through its innovative engineering, pioneering scientific vision and a strong commitment from its 700 staff members, the ESRF is recognised as one of the top research facilities worldwide. Its particle accelerator produces intense X-ray beams that are used by thousands of scientists each year for experiments in diverse fields such as biology, medicine, environmental sciences, cultural heritage, materials science, and physics.

Supported by 19 countries, the ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity. 

Thesis subject: From nut shells to hard carbon: a Circular approach to Hard Carbon Synthesis for Sustainable Na-ion Battery Anodes You will join ID31's team and study the synthesis and characterization of hard carbons from lignin bio-sources and their electrochemical performances when used as anode materials in Na-ion batteries. ID31 beamline is dedicated to the investigation of materials structure, focusing on solving challenges in the energy sectors, allowing a smooth transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

The aim of the PhD project is to systematically investigate the relationship between synthesis parameters, powder structure and electrochemical performance of hard carbons. The hard carbons will be synthetized using lignin-based sources; hard carbons from different sources will be used for comparison.

The high flux at high energy available at ID31 allows for the fast structural characterization of the hard carbons with Wide Angle X-ray Scattering, while complimentary techniques will be used to investigate the presence of impurities and porosity.

The project will take place at ESRF, and the student will be co-supervised by Prof Lorenzo Stievano (Univeristy of Montpellier), Dr Jakub Drnec (ESRF) and Dr Marta Mirolo (ESRF) and will be part of the European Battery Hub.

Further information may be obtained from Marta Mirolo (tel.: +33 (0)4 76 88 29 69, email: [email protected]). 

- Degree allowing enrolment for a PhD (such as MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, materials science or closely related science

- Proficiency in English (working language at the ESRF)

- Proficient technical skills and genuine enthusiasm for experimental science are essential

- Basic knowledge on X-ray diffraction, electrochemistry and programming (python) is an asset

You shall be enrolled in Montpellier University / Doctoral School as a condition of your recruitment.

Contract of two years, renewable for one year.

The salary will be calculated on the basis of relevant qualifications and professional experience.

Do you recognize yourself in this description? Apply now for your next professional adventure!

What we offer:

- Join an innovative international research institute, with a workforce from 38 different countries

- Collaborate with global experts to advance science and address societal challenges

- Come and live in a vibrant city, in the heart of the Alps, and Europe's Green Capital 2022

- Enjoy a workplace designed to support your quality of life

- Benefit from our competitive compensation and allowances package, including financial support for your relocation to Grenoble For further information on employment terms and conditions, please refer to https://www.esrf.fr/home/Jobs/what-we-offer.html

The ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from disabled persons.