PhD in chemistry (M/F) – Harnessing energy with renewable organic batteries

HEROBAT addresses a strategic need in the field of sustainable batteries: the development of efficient positive electrodes (cathodes) for calcium-based batteries, a safer, more abundant, and environmentally friendly alternative to lithium-ion batteries. To date, no viable cathode materials exist for calcium-ion systems. HEROBAT therefore aims to develop a new generation of renewable organic cathodes, synthesized following green chemistry principles and potentially using bio-based resources.

The project aligns with the priorities of the “Industry of the Future” roadmap of the I-site NExT (Nantes Excellence Trajectory) and contributes to the energy transition through innovation in low-carbon materials. It adopts an interdisciplinary approach combining organic materials synthesis, electrochemistry, materials science, and lab-scale pouch cell prototyping. HEROBAT also represents an international doctoral training initiative, involving mobility, joint supervision, and skills transfer.

Sustainability is embedded at every stage of HEROBAT: eco-conscious design, material recyclability, use of soft processes, and avoidance of toxic substances. The project aims to deliver durable batteries compatible with a circular economy. It also serves as a model of European scientific cooperation between Nantes Université and UCLouvain, with strong academic and industrial impact potential.

HEROBAT will benefit from a high-level scientific environment supported by two leading research institutes: the Institut des Matériaux de Nantes Jean Rouxel (IMN/UMR 6502 - CNRS/NU) and the Institute of Condensed Matter and Nanosciences (IMCN), through the Vlad Energy Group at UCLouvain.

The doctoral researcher will have access to advanced technological platforms at both sites for organic synthesis, structural characterization of materials (PXRD, FTIR, Raman, ICP-OES, …), and electrochemical investigations (operando testing, redox mechanism analysis). Cell prototyping will be conducted in Nantes using in-house expertise in pouch cell assembly.

An interdisciplinary training program (ethics, innovation, AI, open science, access to the Graduate Programme « E-Mat » Winter School, etc.) will be available to the candidate. The project includes funding for international mobility, enabling research stays at both institutions. Lastly, the doctoral student will benefit from close supervision by two leading experts, experienced research teams, and frequent interaction with fellow researchers and PhD students involved in related projects.