PhD Position in Interfacial Physics and Electrochemistry for Water Electrolysis Research

This fully funded PhD position at École Supérieure de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles de la Ville de Paris (PSL) focuses on investigating molecular processes at electrode/electrolyte interfaces during water electrolysis. The project, part of the PRISM programme, aims to uncover the fundamental mechanisms governing nanobubble nucleation—critical for improving electrolyzer efficiency and advancing green hydrogen technology. Using innovative electrochemical Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) in liquid environments, the research will bridge fundamental physics, electrochemistry, and materials engineering. The PhD candidate will engage in interdisciplinary training, including international secondments and courses on sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship, preparing for a career at the intersection of academia and industry.

• Develop and apply innovative electrochemical Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) techniques to study nanobubble nucleation at electrode/electrolyte interfaces during water electrolysis.
• Investigate solvent restructuring, interfacial gas saturation, and bubble nucleation kinetics using high-speed and high-resolution dynamic force spectroscopy.
• Correlate nanoscale observations with macroscopic electrochemical performance by systematically varying electrode materials and surface treatments.
• Conduct international secondments to collaborate with leading experts in interfacial science and advanced AFM, enhancing project impact and visibility.
• Engage in interdisciplinary training programs focused on sustainability, innovation, entrepreneurship, and career development.
• Publish findings in high-impact journals and present research at international conferences.
• Collaborate with industrial partners (e.g., TotalEnergies, Saint-Gobain) to translate fundamental insights into technological advancements for industrial electrode materials.