Synthesis of nanomaterials for heterogeneous catalysis

PhD position is available starting in January 2013 (precise stating date negotiable) in the Materials for Catalysis Engineering group under the supervision of Pr. Nadi Braidy in the Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering of Université de Sherbrooke.

The research projects involve the synthesis and the characterization of advanced mixed oxides spinel nanostructures produced by plasma. Plasma synthesis is a versatile approach for producing a range of nanomaterials with controlled structures and properties. The goal is then to investigate the catalytic activity of these nanomaterials under external stimulations, such as microwaves or induction heating.

The expected outcomes from understanding how nanostructures transduce heat and impart the energy to the surface reactions include the possibility of improving surface-driven processes, such as catalysis, filtration, energy storage, etc. The scientific nature of the project will allow the student to publish in high ranked journals while including the possibility of patenting some of the novel ideas.

Candidates are expected to have a strong background and interest in either one or more of these areas: materials engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, catalysis. During the PhD, the student will need to master a number of synthesis techniques for nanomaterials (including plasma torch deposition and co-precipitation) and characterization techniques (e.g. Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction) related to nanomaterials and nanotechnology. The synthesis and characterization tools are available at the Faculty of Engineering of Université de Sherbrooke and in other neighboring universities (such as McGill University). The student will have the opportunity to learn in a stimulating academic environment and within the framework of a cross-disciplinary project spanning the fields of science and engineering (materials, chemistry and physics).
Université de Sherbrooke is a French-speaking environment; therefore, knowledge of French is an asset.

Interested candidates are invited to send their CV and a short motivation letter.