Molecular and Bio-inspired Catalysts for Hydrogen Energy Conversion

Updated: 26 days ago
Location: Grenoble, RHONE ALPES
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: 10 Apr 2026

25 Mar 2026
Job Information
Organisation/Company

Univ Grenoble Alpes
Department

Chemistry
Research Field

Chemistry » Molecular chemistry
Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions

PhD Positions
Application Deadline

10 Apr 2026 - 12:00 (Europe/Jersey)
Country

France
Type of Contract

Temporary
Job Status

Full-time
Hours Per Week

35
Offer Starting Date

1 Oct 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

The transition toward a carbon-neutral economy requires the development of efficient and sustainable technologies for hydrogen production and utilization. Green hydrogen is emerging as a key energy carrier, but current electrochemical systems still face limitations in cost, efficiency, and durability, largely due to reliance on noble-metal-based catalysts.

This PhD project is part of the international PROSPECT-H2 program and aims to develop molecular and bio-inspired electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution and oxidation reactions (HER/HOR). The focus on the present thesis project will be on the design of NiFe, FeFe, MFe complexes (with M = 3d metal ions) inspired by hydrogenase enzymes, with the objective of understanding and improving their HER catalytic performance under relevant conditions.

The research will involve:

  • Design and synthesis of bio-inspired molecular catalysts (MFe complexes)
  • Structural and spectroscopic characterization
  • Evaluation of catalytic activity in homogeneous conditions
  • Mechanistic investigations and structure, activity relationship studies
  • Immobilization of selected catalysts onto conductive supports for integration into fuel cell systems

The project is carried out within a collaborative framework involving four international research groups, combining expertise in molecular chemistry, catalysis, and energy devices.


Where to apply
E-mail

carole.duboc@univ-grenoble-alpes.fr

Requirements
Research Field
Chemistry » Molecular chemistry
Education Level
Master Degree or equivalent

Research Field
Chemistry » Inorganic chemistry
Education Level
Master Degree or equivalent

Research Field
Chemistry » Homogeneous catalysis
Education Level
Master Degree or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in molecular chemistry (or equivalent), preferably in inorganic or coordination chemistry
  • Strong background in synthesis and characterization of metal complexes
  • Interest in catalysis and/or electrochemistry
  • Ability to work independently and as part of an international team
  • Good communication skills in English

Languages
ENGLISH
Level
Good

Research Field
Chemistry » Molecular chemistryChemistry » Inorganic chemistry

Internal Application form(s) needed
PhD Position.pdf
English
(65.69 KB - PDF)
Download
Additional Information
Work Location(s)
Number of offers available
1
Company/Institute
Univ Grenoble Alpes
Country
France
City
GRENOBLE
Postal Code
38000
Geofield


Contact
City

Grenoble
Website

https://dcm.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr/carole-duboc
Street

391 rue de la chimie
E-Mail

carole.duboc@univ-grenoble-alpes.fr

STATUS: EXPIRED

  • X (formerly Twitter)
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Whatsapp

  • More share options
    • E-mail
    • Pocket
    • Viadeo
    • Gmail
    • Weibo
    • Blogger
    • Qzone
    • YahooMail



Similar Positions