PhD Researcher: Destabilization Mechanisms of Binary Liquid Films
Explore the dynamics of drainage and rupture in binary liquid films through experimental and numerical methods.
Best for:Best for candidates with a strong background in fluid dynamics, experimental physics, or soft matter research, eager to combine hands-on experimentation with interdisciplinary collaboration.
Overview
This PhD position focuses on investigating the destabilization processes of binary liquid films and surface bubbles at centimeter and millimeter scales. Conducted within the collaborative ANR-funded Coliflow project, the research will involve designing experimental setups to measure film thickness using interferometry, analyzing drainage dynamics, and quantifying marginal regeneration effects. The work will integrate experimental findings with numerical results from the project’s computational component. The candidate will collaborate closely with researchers at the SVI laboratory (a CNRS-Saint-Gobain joint unit) and partners at ESPCI’s SIMM and PMHH labs, contributing to a multidisciplinary effort in soft matter physics and fluid dynamics.
What you'll do
- Develop experimental setups to study the drainage and rupture of binary liquid films at centimeter and millimeter scales.
- Measure film thickness using interferometry and analyze drainage dynamics and thinning behavior.
- Quantify the contribution of marginal regeneration zones to film destabilization.
- Collaborate with numerical researchers to integrate experimental findings with computational models from the ANR project.
- Present research progress at internal meetings and conferences, both in Aubervilliers and Paris.
- Contribute to interdisciplinary discussions with researchers from SIMM and PMHH labs at ESPCI.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Fluid Dynamics, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration
Instruction: French (primary) and English (for international collaboration)
- Strong background in experimental physics or fluid dynamics
- Familiarity with interferometry techniques or similar optical measurement methods
- Experience with laboratory-based research and data analysis
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
- Open to all nationalities
- Enrollment in the Sorbonne Université doctoral school 'Physics and Chemistry of Materials' required
- No age restrictions, but typical eligibility for French PhD programs applies
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16
Applicants must submit their application through the CNRS employment portal. Required documents include a CV, a cover letter detailing research motivation and experience, academic transcripts, and a research proposal outlining the candidate’s approach to the project. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Research proposal (1-2 pages)
- Reference letters (2-3)
Contact
Laurence Talini· PhD Supervisor
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