Position available on
1/11/2026
Contract duration
12 month
Description
Water-in-water emulsions derived from aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) represent an emerging class of fully aqueous, biocompatible, and sustainable soft materials. Despite their potential for application in the field of biomolecular separations and advanced functional biomaterials, their practical use remains limited by their low stability.
This project aims to develop innovative strategies for the stabilization of water-in-water emulsions and to use these stable systems as precursors for the fabrication of structured solid materials. This project lies at the interface of soft matter physics, colloid science, polymer science, and materials chemistry.
The first part of the project will focus on understanding the physicochemical mechanisms governing emulsion formation and stability. The successful candidate will investigate how formulation parameters and microstructure affect emulsion behavior, with the goal of identifying robust stabilization pathways and establishing structure–property relationships across multiple length scales.
In the second phase, stable emulsions will serve as precursors for the fabrication of hierarchical materials through controlled drying processes. The project will explore how the organization present in the liquid state influences the morphology and mechanical properties of the resulting dried materials. Methods: The project will combine formulation, optical and confocal microscopy, rheology, smallangle neutrons and X-ray scattering (SANS/SAXS), and complementary multiscale characterization techniques.
The successful candidate will work within a collaborative environment bringing together expertise in soft matter, colloidal systems, interfaces, and advanced characterization methods. The project will involve the design and execution of experiments at large-scale facilities, providing unique opportunities to develop expertise in state-of-the-art scattering techniques.
Site
CEA Saclay
Profile of the candidate
Applicants should hold a PhD in physical chemistry, soft matter physics, colloid science, polymer science, materials science, or a closely related field. Experience in one or more of the following areas will be appreciated, although it is not mandatory: emulsions or complex fluids, self-assembly and colloidal systems, rheology, microscopy, small-angle scattering techniques. Candidates should demonstrate strong experimental skills, scientific curiosity, and the ability to work both independently and within an interdisciplinary team.
Language
English
Required education
PhD in Physics
Deadline
20 août 2026
Applications should include a CV, a cover letter describing research interests and motivation, contact information for two referees. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt until the position is filled
Contacts:
Marion Grzelka Clémence Le Coeur