Postdoctoral Position: Analytical Workflow for Heavy Metals in Microplastics
Develop innovative methods to monitor trace metal contaminants carried by microplastics in biological matrices.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with expertise in analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, and imaging techniques who are passionate about environmental pollution and innovative analytical workflows.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at INRAE’s Animal Products Quality research unit (QuaPA) focuses on advancing analytical techniques to detect and quantify heavy metals adsorbed onto microplastics within complex biological samples. The project, funded under the ANR JCJC VECTOR initiative, aims to address critical environmental challenges by studying how microplastics act as carriers of chemical contaminants. The successful candidate will collaborate with experts in analytical chemistry, imaging, and mass spectrometry to optimize extraction methods, compare detection techniques, and contribute to understanding contaminant transport mechanisms. The work will take place in Clermont-Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, with expected travel to partner laboratories.
What you'll do
- Develop and optimize model microplastics intentionally contaminated with trace metal elements for experimental validation.
- Design and refine robust extraction methods for isolating microplastics from complex biological matrices.
- Compare and evaluate imaging and mass spectrometry techniques for detecting trace metal elements adsorbed onto microplastics, focusing on performance and detection limits.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate findings into the broader VECTOR project on contaminant vectorization by microplastics.
- Publish and present research findings in scientific journals and conferences.
- Travel to partner laboratories in France to support collaborative research activities.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related field
Language: French proficiency is not required, but strong English proficiency is essential for scientific communication and collaboration.
Instruction: English
- Proven proficiency in analytical chemistry techniques, particularly mass spectrometry
- Experience with imaging, microscopy, and histology methods
- Strong skills in statistical analysis and data interpretation
- Ability to write and synthesize scientific reports
- Experience in handling complex biological matrices
- Open to international applicants
- No specific nationality restrictions
- No residency requirements mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-28
Applicants must submit their CV and a motivation letter via email to Christelle Planche at christelle.planche@inrae.fr. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your relevant skills and experience in analytical chemistry and microplastics research.
- CV
- Motivation letter
Contact
Christelle Planche· Project Supervisor
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