Simon Le Floc'h

This postdoctoral position at the Laboratory of Mechanics and Civil Engineering (LMGC), University of Montpellier, is part of an ANR-funded project running from 2023 to 2027. The research centers on the hydro-chemo-mechanical characterization of mucoid matrices, with a particular focus on Wharton's jelly (WJ) for medical applications such as bone regeneration and surgical contexts. The project leverages the consortium's expertise in WJ derivatives, which have demonstrated promising biomechanical repeatability and tunable properties, including cross-linking and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary team to develop digital twins that simulate the hydro-chemo-mechanical behavior of WJ derivatives, starting with ex-vivo models and progressing to in-vivo assessments. The research hypothesizes that the interactions between solid and fluid phases, as well as their chemical components (notably electrically charged GAGs and collagen), are key to understanding tissue behavior. Modeling will be performed using poro-mechanics and chemical potential equilibrium through osmosis, aiming to distinguish between hydromechanical and chemomechanical couplings. Multimodal imaging techniques, including MRI, will be used to monitor bio-integration and collect data for predictive modeling. Experimental work will assess the viscous behavior and damage properties of WJ derivatives, with direct applications in surgical procedures and bone regeneration. The position offers collaboration opportunities with LMGC, ICube, and LEM3 labs, and the chance to contribute to innovative research in biomaterial engineering, simulation, and medical technology. The work environment is international and multidisciplinary, with funding provided for the duration of the project. Applicants should have a strong background in simulation engineering, finite element analysis, and ideally experience with medical imaging and digital twin development. Good English skills are required, and basic French is advantageous. The application deadline is February 1, 2026, with the position starting on the same date. For further details and to apply, candidates should contact Dr. Simon Le Floc'h at [email protected].