PhD position Study of Biofuel Oxidation using Photoelectron Spectroscopy, Laboratory of Reactions and Process Engineering, Nancy, France

The project focuses on the theoretical and experimental study of biofuel oxidation using photoelectron spectroscopy combined with synchrotron radiation and quantum chemical calculations. The aim is to understand the molecular-level oxidation reactions of biofuels, which are critical for optimizing pollutant emissions during combustion processes.

Thesis Objectives
The project involves:
- Laboratory experiments on biofuel oxidation reactions in a jet-stirred reactor.
- Using photoelectron spectroscopy coupled with synchrotron radiation.
- Combining these experiments with quantum chemical calculations.
- Developing and validating kinetic models.

Candidate Profile
We are looking for candidates with:
- An engineering degree or a master’s in reaction dynamics, chemical kinetics, combustion chemistry, or atmospheric chemistry.
- Strong skills in theoretical chemistry and familiarity with quantum chemistry software (e.g., Gaussian, MOLPRO).
- Experience with mass spectrometry or spectroscopy is a plus.
- Good proficiency in English (French is not required).

Practical Information
- **Supervisors**: Frédérique Battin-Leclerc (DR CNRS) and Jérémy Bourgalais (CR CNRS)
- **Start date**: December 2024
- **Duration**: 3 years
- **Salary**: €2,074 gross/month
- **Location**: LRGP, Nancy, France
- The project offers opportunities for international collaborations, with results to be disseminated through scientific publications and conferences.

For more information, or to apply, please contact:
- Frédérique Battin-Leclerc (frederique.battin-leclerc@univ-lorraine.fr)
- Jérémy Bourgalais (jeremy.bourgalais@cnrs.fr)