PhD Position in Physics: Nucleation, Wetting, Adhesion, and Rheology of Polymeric Surfaces (NWARPS)

This PhD position within the PRISM programme at PSL University focuses on the microscopic mechanisms governing nucleation, wetting, adhesion, and rheology of polymeric surfaces. The project, led by the Folding Sliding Stretching Lab in collaboration with the University of Twente, aims to design smart materials for sustainable applications, including efficient dew harvesting, thermal management, and anti-icing technologies. The research will combine experimental work, analytical modeling, and numerical simulations to understand how polymer architectures influence capillary trapping and phase transitions at the microscale. The candidate will also engage in interdisciplinary training, including mobility opportunities, secondments, and courses on sustainability and innovation.

• Conduct experimental research to study nucleation, wetting, adhesion, and rheology of polymeric surfaces using advanced techniques like AFM and ellipsometry.
• Develop and apply analytical models and numerical simulations to describe physical phenomena at soft interfaces.
• Investigate the role of polymer architecture in controlling capillary trapping and phase transitions at the microscale.
• Collaborate with researchers at the University of Twente to study breath figures and related phenomena.
• Engage in interdisciplinary training, including mobility opportunities, secondments, and courses on sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
• Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate in industrial collaborations, such as with Saint-Gobain, to explore real-world applications of the research.