Project Overview: The REFOAM PhD position at Université Grenoble Alpes offers an exciting opportunity to develop innovative, sustainable insulation panels from cellulosic fibrous waste generated during paper and board recycling. Buildings account for a significant portion of Europe’s energy consumption, and improving insulation is crucial for reducing energy demand. Current insulation materials are often non-renewable and difficult to recycle, while bio-based alternatives remain underutilized. This project aims to transform cellulose-rich waste—typically discarded after multiple recycling cycles—into 100% bio-based, ultra-porous insulation panels using a liquid foam forming process that eliminates synthetic binders.

Research Focus: The PhD will optimize the foaming process by adjusting surfactant types, concentrations, and mixing parameters to produce stable, high-air-content foams. Drainage and drying conditions will be refined to maintain porosity and strong fiber bonding, with minimal shrinkage. The candidate will also investigate alternative, energy-efficient drying methods such as infrared and vacuum drying to reduce energy use and processing time. Two complementary research axes are available: (1) multiscale relationships between feedstock characteristics, foam properties, and final material performance, including the role of natural structuring agents; (2) numerical modeling of pore structure and its impact on thermal and moisture transport properties, using advanced simulation and imaging tools.

Laboratory Environment: The PhD will be conducted in two renowned Tec21 labs on the Grenoble Campus: LGP2 (Laboratory of Process Engineering for Biorefinery, Bio-based Materials and Functional Printing) and 3SR (Soils, Solids, Structures, Risks Laboratory). LGP2 specializes in lignocellulosic fibers, nanocellulose, and sustainable process development, with expertise in liquid foam forming and advanced material characterization. 3SR focuses on experimental and numerical modeling of porous media, mechanical behavior, and imaging techniques such as X-ray microtomography. The candidate will have access to state-of-the-art equipment for foam generation, fiber characterization, drying, mechanical testing, and computational modeling.

Supervision and Team: The project is supervised by Pr. Sabine Rolland du Roscoat (3SR, CNRS), an expert in multiphysics modeling and X-ray tomography, and Dr. Jérémie Viguié (LGP2, Grenoble INP), a specialist in lignocellulosic materials. The research team includes additional experts in cellulose-based and bio-based materials, providing a multidisciplinary and supportive environment.

Funding and Benefits: The position is funded for 36 months under the PhD@Tec21 Programme, co-funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND actions. The gross monthly salary is 2,669 EUR (net 2,050–2,152 EUR), with full social security, health insurance, visa fees, and doctoral school registration covered. Fellows benefit from high-quality facilities, training (120 hours of doctoral courses and workshops), networking events, and possible secondments with industrial or academic partners. Additional allowances may be available depending on family situation.

Eligibility and Requirements: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in materials science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physical chemistry, or related fields. Experience with bio-based materials, foam formation, materials characterization, and numerical modeling is valued. Candidates should demonstrate motivation for experimental research, scientific curiosity, analytical thinking, autonomy, rigor, and teamwork. English proficiency is expected.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted online via the PhD@Tec21 portal by February 28, 2026. The selection process follows specific eligibility and evaluation criteria detailed in the applicant guide. For questions, contact the PhD@Tec21 Management Board.

Contact: [email protected], [email protected]

Apply here: https://phd-at-tec21.sciencescall.org/