Postdoctoral position at GeM (M/F) – Ref 1273

Centrale Nantes is a prestigious engineering school which awards degrees to engineers, Master’s students and PhD candidates upon completion of academic programmes based on the very latest developments in science and technology and on best management practices.

As a member of the Groupe des Écoles Centrales (Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nantes and Paris), our school provides high-quality education for highly selective students.

A public institution under the supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, Centrale Nantes has over 2,250 students, 500 staff members and 600 part-time lecturers.

Job description:

Within the GeM laboratory, a postdoctoral position is available in the experimental analysis of hydro-chemical-mechanical phenomena related to the geological storage of CO₂.

The aim of the project is to study the interactions between CO₂-acidified brine solutions and the caprock at geological storage sites. The objective is to understand how these interactions may alter the properties of the rock and affect its impermeability, particularly in the presence of fractures or faults.

The work will involve adapting an existing experimental apparatus (BIAX) to replicate various scenarios involving the diffusion and circulation of CO₂ and acidic solutions through the rock. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms likely to lead to CO₂ leaks and to assess the long-term safety of its underground storage.

Your main responsibilities will be as follows:

• To upgrade the BIAX biaxial testing apparatus and the triaxial testing apparatus (Bishop-Wesley cell) so that they can be used with acidic solutions.

• To participate in the design, based on a similarity analysis, of analogue materials—in the form of a mixture of clay and mineral inclusions (calcite)— in order to replicate certain properties of the caprock.

• To develop experimental protocols for triaxial and biaxial tests

• Monitor the experimental campaign based on biaxial tests (developed by a PhD student).

• Help update the Ufreckles digital image correlation software, currently in use at GeM, in direct correlation with BIAX

Knowledge:

• Techniques for written and oral presentation in English

• Work analysis

• Knowledge of analysis and synthesis

Operational skills:

• Ensuring the validation of results

• Problem-solving

• Applying techniques specific to the field

• Implementing procedures and rules

• Communicating with experts in one’s field

• Managing one’s workload within a complex schedule and management framework

• Monitoring data quality

• Working as part of a team

Behavioural skills:

• Sense of initiative

• Sense of confidentiality

• Interpersonal skills

• Adaptability

• Critical thinking

• Ability to conceptualise

• Rigour

• Reliability

• Creativity

• Intellectual curiosity

• Ability to manage stress

• Analytical reasoning skills

Technical skills:

• Design and implementation of experimental tests

• Image correlation

Required qualification: You hold a PhD.

What we offer:

22-month fixed-term contract – open to contract staff and civil servants

Postdoctoral researcher category

Full-time role – based in Nantes

Flexible working hours

Adjustable working patterns (option to work a 4.5-day week)

RTT + additional leave

Remote working possible

Remote working allowance

Free parking

75% travel allowance

Sustainable mobility bonus (if cycling or car-sharing)

Compulsory health insurance & optional personal protection insurance

Remuneration: in accordance with the State civil service pay scales

Position to be filled: January 2027

HR contact: Eloïse LEHOUX

Manager contact: Giulio SCIARRA

This advert refers to terms such as ‘candidate’, ‘engineer’, ‘manager’, etc. These titles are to be understood as gender-neutral and apply equally to women and men.

Centrale de Nantes is committed to equality and diversity. In line with our organisation’s CSR commitments, this vacancy is open to all.