PhD in Supported Enzymatic Catalysis for Biomass-Derived Molecule Valorization Institut Charles Gerhardt Montpellier in France

PhD position in supported enzymatic catalysis for biomass-derived molecule valorization at the Institut Charles Gerhardt Montpellier (ICGM), CNRS campus, Montpellier, France.

The project focuses on photo-enzymatic catalysis and hybrid cascade reactions for the valorization of 5-HMF and related biomass-derived compounds such as FDCA and DFF. The research combines heterogeneous catalysis, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, materials science, and enzyme engineering in a dynamic interdisciplinary team within the “Porous & Hybrid Materials” department.

The doctoral researcher will work mainly at ICGM in Montpellier for more than 30 months of the 36-month contract, with short research stays at partner laboratories in France. Main tasks include enzyme production, purification and characterization; immobilization on biosourced porous supports; monitoring and optimizing (photo-)enzymatic amination reactions; scale-up to 100 mL; and contribution to hybrid reactor development.

Eligibility: Master’s degree (MSc, second year) or final-year engineering student with a background in biochemistry, chemistry, or chemical engineering. Knowledge of supported enzymatic catalysis and analytical chemistry is desired. Strong motivation, curiosity, rigor, autonomy, and teamwork are required.

Funding: the position is funded by the ANR PEPR B-BEST project GQD-BIOCAT, with a gross monthly salary of about €2,300.

Application deadline: 2026-05-19. Apply only through the designated portal; incomplete applications will not be considered.