M/F for apprenticeship training in the field of radiochemistry: characterization of materials
PhD @French National Centre for Scientific Research posted 2 days agoJob Description
General information
Job title: M/F for Apprenticeship training in the field of Radiochemistry: characterization of materials
Reference: UMR6457-SOPDEP-057
Work location: NANTES
Country: France
Publication date: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Contract type: Apprenticeship
contract Contract duration: 24 months
Expected hiring date: September 1, 2025
Work quota: Full
Remuneration:
Level of diploma prepared: BAC+3/4
BAP: B – Chemical Sciences and Materials Sciences
Job Description
The apprentice will be integrated into the Radiochemistry team of the SUBATECH laboratory, where he/she
will actively contribute to the development and optimization of
materials characterization methods. The position mainly involves the characterization of solid phases of
materials of interest for nuclear waste storage, through techniques such
as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy
(FTIR), and other complementary methods, such as scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) and thermogravimetry (TGA).
The apprentice will be responsible for familiarizing himself with characterization devices,
preparing and analyzing samples, and participating in the optimization of
experimental protocols. Particular attention will be paid to the validation of
quantification methods and the application of these methods on real samples.
Expected deliverables:
• A report detailing the experimental protocols tested and optimized.
• The methodology for quantifying and identifying mineral phases, including
the results of method validations.
• A final deliverable presenting the results obtained, written according to a model made
available by the laboratory.
This work is part of the European research projects PREDIS, EURAD and
EURAD2, dedicated to the treatment and conditioning of nuclear waste, which
will mobilize the team over the next five years.
The apprentice will be integrated into the ITA team and will participate in the life of the laboratory.
Employer Description
The National Center for Scientific Research is a multidisciplinary public research organization under the supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. Its 10 scientific institutes cover all fields of knowledge in biology, physics, chemistry, engineering, human and social sciences, mathematics, ecology, information sciences and space sciences.
The CNRS employs nearly 32,000 people, including more than 11,000 researchers working in 1,144 laboratories spread across the country. The 17 regional delegations (DR) of the CNRS have a role in managing and providing local support to these research units, particularly in the area of Human Resources.
For further information, please visit the CNRS website: http://www.cnrs.fr/
Description of the profile sought
We are looking for a motivated, curious and rigorous apprentice, interested in materials science. The desired profile must have the following skills:
• Education: Bac +2 to Bac +3 in materials engineering, materials chemistry, materials physics, physical measurement or analytical chemistry.
• Technical skills: Basic knowledge of materials characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and FTIR spectroscopy.
• Desired qualities:
• Scientific rigor and ability to follow precise experimental protocols.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating within a team.
• Good organizational skills.
• IT skills: Knowledge of data processing tools, as well as office tools (Word, Excel) for report writing and data management
• Languages: knowledge of scientific English would be a plus.
Above all, we are looking for a strong motivation to learn and contribute to research projects.
Special conditions of exercise
The apprentice will be assigned to the experimental laboratory of the Radiochemistry team within the SUBATECH department, located in a restricted area (ZRR). He/she will have to respect specific safety rules related to the use of equipment and chemicals. Safety training will be provided at the start of the contract to ensure proper handling of procedures and optimal risk management.
• Working conditions
The apprentice will work in a laboratory, where he/she will be required to handle samples, characterization instruments and chemicals. Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided and the workstation will be adapted.
• Working hours
Working hours are generally 35 hours per week, with the possibility of adaptation according to the needs of the project.
• Monitoring and support
Regular monitoring by the apprenticeship supervisor and weekly meetings will ensure the apprentice’s progress in acquiring practical and theoretical skills. This monitoring will not only ensure that the objectives of the apprenticeship contract are achieved, but also that the apprentice receives the necessary support to succeed in their mission.
• Mobility
The apprentice may be required to travel occasionally to the Nantes University site, where certain characterization facilities will be used.
LANGUAGES
Knowledge of scientific English would be a plus.
Additional information
• Professional development opportunities
Internal seminars and scientific conferences will be organized. The apprentice will be able to participate in them.
• Resources made available
The apprentice will have access to specialized software for processing experimental data.
• Additional social benefits
– Subsidy for access to the IMT Atlantique catering.
– Possibility of partial reimbursement of public transport costs
– Access to the gymnasium and other sports facilities
Comments
Contact: suzuki@subatech.in2p3.fr; nicolas.bessaguet@subatech.in2p3.fr; human_resources@subatetch.in2p3.fr
