This fully funded PhD position at Université Grenoble Alpes, supported by the MSCA COFUND PhD@Tec21 program, investigates anisotropic liquid phases for innovative and sustainable liquid-liquid extraction processes. The research addresses the pressing need for greener recycling and depollution methods, focusing on ionic and molecular extraction using thermomorphic aqueous biphasic systems (ABS). The project centers on a system based on decanoic acid and lidocaine, a deep eutectic solvent that avoids strong acids and enables efficient extraction of organic pollutants and nickel ions. This system features complex nanometric organization, including anisotropic phases and a broad range of viscosities, which are crucial for optimizing extraction efficiency.

The research aims to elucidate the relationship between rheological properties and phase separation, and to understand how molecular-level anisotropy affects impurity transport and extraction kinetics. Work will be conducted in two leading laboratories on the Grenoble campus: the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Physics (LIPhy), specializing in scattering techniques and ABS, and the Laboratory of Rheology and Processes (LRP), with expertise in rheology and out-of-equilibrium X-ray scattering. A minimum two-month secondment at APERAM will provide hands-on experience in real-world metallic extraction conditions.

The project is structured into three main research axes: equilibrium characterization of the system, microscopic analysis of flow properties using advanced scattering techniques under shear, and investigation of transport phenomena and extraction kinetics. The PhD offers a comprehensive training environment, including access to state-of-the-art facilities, doctoral courses, workshops, and networking opportunities within the international MSCA network. Candidates of all nationalities are eligible, provided they hold a relevant Master’s degree, have not resided in France for more than 12 months in the past three years, and are fluent in English.

The successful candidate will receive a 36-month contract with a competitive salary, full social security, health insurance, and support for relocation and administrative procedures. This position is ideal for highly motivated candidates with a strong background in physical chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields, and offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable extraction technologies.