PhD Position in High-Throughput Screening of Enzyme-MOF Biocomposites for Hybrid Catalysis
Interdisciplinary PhD opportunity to develop sustainable hybrid catalytic processes using enzyme-MOF biocomposites.
Best for:Best for bioengineering or chemical engineering graduates with hands-on lab experience, strong bioinformatics or catalysis background, and enthusiasm for high-throughput experimentation and automation.
Overview
This PhD position at the Unité de Catalyse et de Chimie du Solide (CNRS) focuses on advancing hybrid catalysis by integrating enzymes with metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). The project, part of the CALIBRATE initiative, combines high-throughput experimentation and machine learning to optimize enzyme-MOF biocomposites for selective oxidation and amination of biomass-derived compounds like 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF). The successful candidate will conduct high-throughput screening of catalytic activity and stability, design hybrid catalytic processes, and contribute to a dataset of ~10,000 catalytic materials. This interdisciplinary role bridges bioengineering, chemistry, and automation, offering a unique opportunity to drive sustainable chemical production.
What you'll do
- Conduct high-throughput screening of enzyme-MOF biocomposites for catalytic activity and stability using colorimetric, fluorimetric, and thermal stability assays.
- Design and optimize hybrid catalytic processes for selective oxidation and amination of 5-HMF derivatives.
- Develop and deploy automated liquid-handling platforms for high-throughput experimentation.
- Characterize catalytic materials using techniques such as NMR, HPLC, and GC.
- Collaborate with parallel PhD projects to contribute to a dataset of ~10,000 catalytic materials.
- Analyze and interpret experimental data, integrating machine learning approaches where applicable.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency required for academic communication and publication.
Instruction: French (for local interactions) and English (for supervision, publications, and conferences)
- Strong background in bioengineering, enzymology, or catalysis.
- Hands-on laboratory experience with biochemical and chemical assays.
- Familiarity with basic chemical synthesis techniques (e.g., NMR, HPLC, GC).
- Experience with data management and organization.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English for academic communication.
- No specific nationality restrictions.
- No age limit.
- No prior experience cap, but strong lab experience is essential.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-20
Applicants must submit their application through the CNRS employment portal. The application should include a CV, a cover letter detailing research interests and motivation, and academic transcripts. Two reference letters may also be required.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Two reference letters (if applicable)
Contact
HR/CNRS Recruitment Team· Recruitment Contact
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