Website Université Paris-Saclay
- La Rochelle University is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher or research engineer on a 24-month fixed-term contract within the LIENSs Laboratory. The candidate will contribute to the study of individual bacterial mechanisms involved in MICP (Microbial Intake Process) and the characterization of biomineralization products.
They will participate in the selection, isolation, and characterization of biocalcifying bacterial strains from natural environments (soils, cements, rocks) and existing collections. The growth, survival, and biomineralization capacities of these microorganisms will be studied under conditions representative of application environments, including variations in pH and viscosity, as well as modified atmospheres.
Particular attention will be paid to the interactions between bacteria and biopolymers, both in terms of biological compatibility and their impact on the kinetics, localization, and morphology of carbonate precipitation. The postdoctoral researcher will also investigate the capacity of the developed MICP systems to consolidate granular substrates (sands and fine soils) in suitable experimental setups. They will implement thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), total and inorganic carbon measurements, as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman microspectroscopy techniques to characterize the nature of the formed mineral phases, their morphology, and the interactions at the bacteria-biopolymer-substrate interfaces. Depending on the results, they may also contribute to advanced characterization campaigns in collaboration with project partners.
The postdoctoral researcher will also participate in the analysis and dissemination of results, the writing of international scientific publications, and the presentation of findings at conferences. An involvement in the operational management of the ANR OPTIMIC project at La Rochelle University will be highly valued, particularly for coordinating local scientific activities and monitoring deliverables. As the position is part of a strong collaborative dynamic, the postdoctoral researcher will maintain regular contact with the numerical modeling teams to contribute to and interpret the project’s multi-scale simulations.
- ProfileThe position is open to a candidate with a PhD in microbiology, biogeosciences, biogeochemistry, chemistry, or materials science.
Key qualifications include:
strong skills in microbiology and/or biomineralization, as well as proven experience in bacterial culture and laboratory experimentation. Knowledge of MICP processes or microorganism/mineral interactions would be an asset.
Experience in materials or biomaterial characterization is desirable.
An interest in biopolymers, porous media, and environmental or geotechnical applications is essential.
Scientific rigor, a proven ability to work independently, and the capacity to effectively manage scientific and industrial projects in an interdisciplinary environment are expected.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to actively contribute scientific expertise and ideas, are also required.
- Additional informationFor information on the recruitment procedure, please contact
Marie de Chalendar, HR Officer for Research, LUDI Institute – marie.de_chalendar@univ-lr.fr
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