French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS)
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Postdoctoral Researcher in Hybrid Catalysis for Glucose-to-5-HMF Conversion French National Centre for Scientific Research in France
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 23, 2026
Country
France
University
French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS)
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About this position
This postdoctoral project develops the chemical-catalysis component of the ANR TOOLS4HYBCAT project, which targets the conversion of biomass-derived D-glucose into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF).
The research will focus on the acid-catalysed dehydration of D-fructose, the intermediate produced by enzymatic isomerization of D-glucose. The postdoctoral researcher will identify suitable chemical catalysts, assess their stability and compatibility with the intended operating conditions, and evaluate their reactivity toward 5-HMF formation in batch reactors.
A major part of the work involves developing catalyst immobilization strategies using appropriate supports or reactor surfaces. The immobilized catalysts will be tested first in monophasic and biphasic configurations, followed by evaluation in a complete triphasic hybrid microreactor. This reactor separates enzymatic and chemical reactions into two aqueous phases, with an organic phase enabling selective transport of the reaction intermediate.
The project combines hybrid catalysis, materials chemistry, chemical engineering and continuous-flow reactor development. The researcher will investigate reaction performance, mass transfer and the coupling of enzymatic and chemical processes, contributing to the development of a model for the overall system. Activities will include literature review, catalyst preparation and characterization, reactor experiments, data analysis, project meetings, scientific reporting and publication.
The position is hosted by the Unité de Catalyse et de Chimie du Solide within the French National Centre for Scientific Research, in Villeneuve d’Ascq, France, and is connected to a multidisciplinary research environment working on catalysis and advanced reactor systems.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent in materials chemistry, chemical engineering and/or catalysis. Candidates should have strong experimental skills and a solid background in catalysis. Experience in catalyst synthesis or immobilization and physicochemical characterization is desirable, as is familiarity with continuous-flow systems and chromatographic analysis techniques. Applicants should be able to work independently and collaborate in a multidisciplinary team, demonstrate an interest in student supervision, and have strong scientific communication and writing skills. Basic French is listed as a language requirement, and 1–4 years of research experience are indicated.
How to apply
Apply through the CNRS/EURAXESS application page before 23 November 2026 at 23:59 UTC. Review the detailed advert and submit the requested application materials through the online portal.
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Prepare your application
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.