PhD Position in Organic Synthesis Using Cold Plasma-Generated Hydrogen Radicals
Explore novel chemical activation mechanisms at the intersection of organic synthesis and plasma physics.
Best for:Best for chemistry PhD candidates with a strong background in organic synthesis, mechanistic studies, and an interest in interdisciplinary plasma chemistry research.
Overview
This PhD position at the Laboratoire Hétérochimie Fondamentale et Appliquée (LHFA) in Toulouse, France, focuses on investigating the selective activation of strong chemical bonds using hydrogen radicals generated by cold plasma. The project bridges organic chemistry and plasma physics, aiming to elucidate reaction mechanisms, kinetic studies, and isotopic analyses while correlating plasma parameters with reaction selectivity. The successful candidate will collaborate with the LAPLACE laboratory to develop experimental techniques for plasma control and diagnostics, ultimately advancing cold plasma applications in organic synthesis. The interdisciplinary environment combines theoretical and experimental approaches under the supervision of Dr. Sami Lakhdar’s team.
What you'll do
- Conduct experimental studies to investigate the activation of C–X bonds using hydrogen radicals generated by cold plasma.
- Perform mechanistic, kinetic, and isotopic analyses to elucidate reaction pathways and selectivity.
- Collaborate with LAPLACE laboratory to develop and apply plasma diagnostics and control techniques.
- Correlate plasma parameters with reaction outcomes to optimize synthetic processes.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
- Participate in interdisciplinary research activities bridging organic chemistry and plasma physics.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: French; proficiency may be required for local integration (CNRS guidelines). English proficiency is expected for international collaboration and publication.
Instruction: French (primary) and English (for publications and collaboration)
- Strong background in organic synthesis and mechanistic chemistry
- Experience with experimental techniques in chemical research
- Familiarity with plasma physics or cold plasma applications
- Proficient in laboratory techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography)
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary research environment
- No specific nationality restrictions (CNRS open to international applicants)
- No age limit for PhD positions in France
- No prior experience caps, but relevant academic background is essential
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-28
Applicants must submit their application through the CNRS employment portal. Required documents include a CV, a cover letter detailing research interests and motivation, academic transcripts, and a research proposal outlining how the candidate’s background aligns with the project. Two letters of recommendation are also required.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Research proposal (1-2 pages)
- Two letters of recommendation
Contact
CNRS Employment Office· Recruitment Contact
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