PhD thesis offer at ICGM
Breakthrough Concepts for C-C and C-Heteroatom Bond Formation to Support the Relocation of Pharmaceutical Production to Europe
Postdoctoral Position – University of Montpellier (France)
12-month contract, starting January 2026
Context
This project is part of the broader European effort to relocate pharmaceutical production by developing sustainable and economically competitive manufacturing processes. More specifically, it focuses on the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) using innovative methods that are low-toxicity, lowpollution, and cost-effective.
Main mission
The goal of the project is to develop new methods for the arylation of various nucleophiles using low-cost, low-toxicity catalysts. Once proof of concept has been established, the targeted APIs from a wide range of therapeutic areas will be synthesized.
Activities
Typical research work in organic and organometallic synthesis, including:
– Synthesis and characterization of organic and organometallic compounds.
– Reactivity and kinetic studies.
– Implementation of organometallic or organic catalysts.
– Product separation and purification.
– Structural and analytical characterization.
Skills & Expertise
Organic synthesis, Organometallic chemistry, Homogeneous catalysis, Enantioselective synthesis, Organocatalysis
Contact
Marc Taillefer
ICGM, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM
Pôle chimie Balard Recherche 1919 Route de Mende
34293, Montpellier, France.
marc.taillefer@enscm.fr
Recycling critical metals from Li-ion batteries using polymer-assisted supercritical CO2 extraction (POLYCRICRI)
Context
Controlled management of strategic metal resources in lithium-ion batteries (LIB) has become a pressing issue due to the exponential increase in their use in recent years. The aim of this ANR-funded POLYCRICRI project is to propose a new, innovative approach to recycling critical metals that is cleaner and less energy-intensive. This work is a collaboration between ICGM, an expert in materials chemistry (including polymers, batteries, supercritical fluids, and computational chemistry), SNAM, the European leader in rechargeable battery recycling, INOVERTIS for life cycle analysis, and IFS for communication and expertise in supercritical fluid technologies.
Objectives
This thesis aims to explore a new approach to recycling critical metals (Co, Li, Ni, Mn) contained in LIBs. The approach is based on the use of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) assisted by polymers composed of CO2-philic units to confer solubility to the polymers, and complexing units to allow the polymers to interact with metal ions [1]. The target polymers will be synthesized by controlled radical polymerization or telomerization. The proposed method is based on promising results obtained on model compounds for cobalt and lithium [2-3]. The recovered metals will be reused for the synthesis of new cathode materials, whose performance will be evaluated electrochemically in Li-ion batteries. The complexing polymers will be regenerated for a new extraction cycle. This project contributes to the circular economy of critical metals.
Candidate profile
The candidate must have a master’s degree or equivalent in polymer chemistry, combined with solid experience in organic chemistry and the physical chemistry of polymers, a strong interest in innovation, and very good communication skills (English required), strong motivation, curiosity, and autonomy. Knowledge of solid-state chemistry and/or Li-ion batteries, as well as an appetite for processes, including supercritical fluid technologies, would be appreciated.
Host laboratory
The thesis will mainly be carried out at the Charles Gerhardt Institute in Montpellier (1919 route de Mende, 34000 Montpellier, France), specifically within departments D2 (Macromolecular Chemistry and Materials) and D4 (Materials Chemistry, Nanostructures, Materials for Energy). The doctoral student will also be required to carry out part of the project at SNAM (Viviez).
Thesis supervisors
Patrick LACROIX-DESMAZES and Cécile BOUILHAC. EDSCB Doctoral School. Gross monthly salary of approximately €2,300/month (employer: CNRS).
Duration
The contract will be for 36 months, with a start date to be determined, from January 5, 2026.
Application
Submit your CV, cover letter, scores from the last five years (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees) and at least two contacts and/or letters of recommendation
