PhD in Materials Chemistry
Job Description
Organization: CNRS – Institut de Science des Matériaux de Mulhouse (IS2M)
Location: Mulhouse, Haut-Rhin, France
Contract Type: Fixed-term PhD (36 months)
Start Date: 1 October 2026
Salary: €2300 gross per month
Application Deadline: 13 March 2026
This PhD project focuses on the surface modification of materials through plasma polymerization using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). The research will investigate how photoinitiators grafted onto substrates influence plasma polymer growth mechanisms, kinetics, and resulting structures. The project is part of the PHOTOPLASMA research initiative funded by the French National Research Agency.
Research Project
Surface modification techniques can provide new functional properties to materials. Plasma polymerization is an attractive approach because it operates without solvents or catalysts and allows reactive species generated in the vapor phase to recombine on nearly any surface. This PhD will examine the fundamental processes governing plasma polymer growth when photoinitiators are present on substrates. The research aims to uncover the influence of these photoinitiators on polymer formation mechanisms and to develop innovative bottom-up processing strategies for advanced materials.
Research Environment
The candidate will join the Interface and Multidimensional Materials research axis at IS2M (UMR 7361), a joint research unit of CNRS and the University of Haute-Alsace. The institute specializes in materials science, combining expertise in chemistry, physics, nanoscience, and materials engineering.
The doctoral candidate will be enrolled in the Doctoral School of Physics and Physical Chemistry (ED182), jointly accredited by the University of Strasbourg and the University of Haute-Alsace. Supervision will be provided by Jamerson Carneiro de Oliveira and Vincent Roucoules, experts in plasma polymerization and plasma–surface interactions.
Candidate Profile
- Master’s degree or engineering degree in polymer chemistry, physical chemistry, or materials science.
- Strong interest in surface science, plasma processes, and materials chemistry.
- Good written and spoken English skills (minimum B2 level).
- Ability to work independently while collaborating within a research team.
- Motivated, curious, and committed to scientific research.
Benefits
- Monthly gross salary of €2300.
- Approximately 44 days of annual leave and RTT.
- Public transport support covering 75% of costs.
- Sustainable mobility allowance up to €300.
- Access to a multidisciplinary research environment within CNRS.
