Description of the thesis topic

As part of a project based on the concept of biomimicry, this PhD aims to investigate the mechanisms of gelation under flow and to exploit them to design biosourced microcapsules with original properties — particularly in terms of mechanical resistance and controlled remodeling.

Using advanced experimental approaches in microfluidics, microscopy, and rheophysics, the PhD candidate will analyze the influence of flow conditions on the gelation kinetics, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the resulting gels.
This research follows a bio-inspired strategy, aiming to replicate the remarkable behavior of plant cell walls, which can both withstand high osmotic pressures and dynamically remodel themselves in response to enzymatic action. The project will focus on the use of natural polymers derived from biomass (such as pectin, cellulose, and hemicellulose).

Activities and Methodology
Development of experimental setups in (micro-)fluidics
Implementation of microscopy techniques (including confocal) and microrheology
Structural and mechanical characterization of the gels
Data analysis (using Python or equivalent tools)
Literature review and documentation of experimental protocols
Dissemination of results through scientific publications and conference presentations
Participation in interdisciplinary activities within the WallMat (ANR) and PEPR B-BEST projects
Writing and defense of a PhD dissertation at Université Grenoble Alpes

Prise de fonction :

The selected candidate will be recruited by the CNRS, a public multidisciplinary research organization under the supervision of the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research.

The PhD student will work within a dynamic collaboration between the Laboratory of Rheology and Processes (LRP) and the Centre for Research on Plant Macromolecules (CERMAV), both located on the university campus in Grenoble.

The LRP, a joint research unit of CNRS and Université Grenoble Alpes, specializes in rheology, processing, and soft matter, with applications ranging from biomaterials to advanced industrial processes.

The CERMAV, a recognized center of excellence in glycosciences, conducts cutting-edge research on polysaccharide-based materials and biopolymers.
Both laboratories are equipped with advanced instrumentation in rheology, microscopy, microfluidics, and physico-chemical characterization, providing an ideal environment for this interdisciplinary project.

The PhD will be jointly supervised by Clément de Loubens (LRP), Laurent Heux (CERMAV), and Hugues Bodiguel (LRP), and will involve close interaction with partners of the WallMat project (PEPR B-BEST), particularly with the team of Jérôme Pelloux (Université de Picardie Jules Verne), specialists in plant cell wall remodeling enzymes.

In the context of a growing need for renewable and bio-based materials, and as part of the PEPR B-BEST initiative (Biomass, Biotechnology and Sustainable Technologies for Chemistry and Fuels), this PhD project is embedded in the WallMat consortium
(https://www.pepr-bioproductions.fr/projets-finances/caracterisation-de-la-biomasse/wallmat). The aim is to valorize agro-industrial by-products rich in cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin by drawing inspiration from natural mechanisms in plant cells to design materials with novel properties.

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.

Candidate Profile
We are looking for a curious, rigorous, and highly motivated candidate, eager to engage in experimental research in an interdisciplinary environment. The project lies at the crossroads of soft matter physics, complex fluid mechanics, and the physico-chemistry of natural polymers.

Expected skills
Education: Master's degree or engineering diploma in fluid mechanics, soft matter physics, materials science, or related fields
Strong interest in experimentation and in developing new experimental tools
Solid skills in data analysis and result interpretation
Proficiency in scientific English (written and oral)
As part of the PhD training, the candidate will receive both scientific and professional development support, including training in advanced soft matter characterization techniques as well as transferable skills such as project management and scientific communication.