PhD position: New pyranopyran-based conjugated cores for organic electronics CNRS in France

CNRS and the MOLTECH-Anjou laboratory at the University of Angers are offering a fully funded PhD position in organic chemistry focused on the design, synthesis, and study of new pyranopyran-based conjugated cores for organic electronics.

The project sits at the interface of synthetic organic chemistry, materials chemistry, and organic electronics. It builds on DFT/TD-DFT-driven molecular design to explore novel pyranopyran motifs that have not yet been widely investigated in organic electronic applications. The doctoral research will aim to synthesize new pyranopyran-derived building blocks and quadrupolar chromophores, then evaluate their optical and electrochemical properties for use in organic photovoltaic devices (OSCs/OPV) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). The broader scientific goal is to identify low-cost, high-performance organic chromophores that improve light absorption, charge separation, stability, and emission efficiency.

The successful candidate will join the Kemtronix team within MOLTECH-Anjou (UMR CNRS 6200), a laboratory of about 90 chemists and physicists working on organic molecular materials, organic-inorganic hybrids, organic electronics, self-assembled systems, energy materials, nanostructured surfaces, and photonics. The lab has a strong track record in organic photovoltaics and access to a technical platform dedicated to electronic device fabrication.

Supervision will be provided by Dr. Maxime Remond and Dr. Philippe Blanchard. The project offers training in organic synthesis, purification by crystallization and column chromatography, structural characterization by NMR, MS, and XRD, as well as spectroscopic and electrochemical characterization of π-conjugated molecules. Depending on the project progress, the candidate may also gain experience with the fabrication of organic electronic devices.

Eligibility highlights include a Master’s or Engineer degree in Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related area, along with prior experience in organic synthesis. Strong motivation for π-conjugated molecules and organic electronics, good communication skills, and scientific rigor are valued. Previous experience with luminescent materials or device fabrication is not mandatory, though it is considered beneficial. Excellent English is required.

The position is funded for 3 years by ANR and is expected to start between October and December 2026. The application deadline is 21 August 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Amsterdam). Candidates should submit a CV and cover letter through the CNRS application website. Interviews are planned for the end of August.

This is an excellent opportunity for a student interested in organic synthesis, functional π-conjugated materials, and their application in next-generation solar cells and light-emitting devices within a highly active French research environment.