PhD Positions in (Bio)-Electrochemistry - Electrocatalysis, University of Bordeaux I

These two Ph-D proposals are part of a challenging project consisting in making new glucose/O2 Biofuel cells. As the size of microelectronic circuits and of sensors shrinks, the size of the low-power sensor-transmitter package (of potential value in physiological research and in medicine) becomes increasingly dependent on the size of its power source. The miniature biofuel cells are likely to meet the need for a small power source in low power sensor-transmitter systems. After considerable further development, the cell will power implanted autonomous sensor-transmitter systems of relevance to physiological research and to medicine, for example by monitoring the temperature at a site following surgery, indicative of inflammation.

The miniature biofuel cell will resemble the glucose-air biofuel cell we already reported. The operational power density of a biofuel cell depends mainly on: (I) the operating voltage; (II) the limiting turnover rates of the anodic and the cathodic bioelectrocatalysts, defining the current density when mass transport is not limiting, (III) the specific surface of the electrode, and (IV) the stability of the biofuel cell. The proposed research will address each of these points.


The positions are limited to a maximum of three years.

Keywords: Biofuel cell, Biosensors, Nanotubes, Porous Materials, Enzymes, Redox Hygrogel

- Mano and al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 125, 4951, (2003)
- Mano and al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 125, 6588, (2003)
- Mano and al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 125, 15290, (2003)
- Mano and al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 126, 8368, (2004)

Your profile
You have active interest in experimental work as well as theoretical work and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team spirit. A background in physical and analytical electrochemistry is preferred. A good communication skill in English is required.

The “Centre de Recherche Paul-Pascal” (CRPP) was created in 1965 as a full CNRS Research Institute (UPR 8641) in the department of Chemical Sciences. It is recognized internationally and is one of the leading research center in France in the field of physical-chemistry of soft condensed matter. Approximately 140 people work in the institute, distributed per third between technical staff, permanent Faculty and temporary researchers (undergraduate students, graduate students, PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, visitors).

The laboratory is located on the campus of the University of Bordeaux I and takes part in the missions of teaching and research for the Department of Chemistry of this university.

Application
The application, including CV, a statement of interest and academic references, should be sent to: Nicolas Mano@manoatcrpp-bordeaux.cnrs.fr