Postdoctoral Position in Synthesis and Characterization of (Nano)Materials within the Framework of the SURFMEMO Project (Origin of Life)

Job title:

Postdoctoral Position in Synthesis and Characterization of (Nano)Materials within the Framework of the SURFMEMO Project (Origin of Life)

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Job description

Offer Description

• Context / Mission
• Postdoctoral Research in the Synthesis and Characterization of Nanomaterials for the SURFMEMO Project (Origin of Life)

One of the major challenges in prebiotic chemistry and understanding the origin of life lies in explaining the emergence of complex polynucleotide molecules (DNA, RNA, etc.) that serve as the molecular basis of the genetic code. While there is broad consensus on the prebiotic formation of fundamental building blocks, the pathway for their polymerization into macromolecules remains unknown. Polynucleotides or oligonucleotides (ONs) cannot form abiotically or prebiotically without enzymes.The SURFMEMO project offers an interdisciplinary study to test the hypothesis that surface mechanisms govern the oligomerization of nucleotides (a key process in the origin of life). The project specifically aims to understand:– The adsorption of mononucleotides, DNA, and RNA onto imogolite nanotubes.– The oligomerization on mineral surfaces and its impact on the secondary structure of oligonucleotides.Imogolite nanotubes exhibit a unique architecture and specific properties (adapted to the phosphate groups of nucleotides), facilitating micrometer-scale assemblies.In this context, the postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for:– Synthesizing and characterizing imogolite nanotubes by optimizing their structural (length and structural defect creation) and chemical properties (incorporation of trace elements such as Fe, Ni, and Mn).– Controlling the surface reactivity of modified imogolites to assess their impact on nucleotide oligomerization and stability.– Investigating the effects of structural defects and dopants on catalysis and reactivity, particularly in relation to nucleic acid adsorption and oligomerization.

• Key Activities:

– Synthesizing various batches of imogolite and performing characterizations (solid-liquid phase separation (ultrafiltration) and a combination of spectroscopic, microscopic, and light-scattering methods to analyze the nanotubes (Zeta potential, solid-state NMR, FTIR, XAS, AFM, SAXS, DLS) and the structure of surface complexes).– Collaborating with the SURF-MEMO project team, particularly on nucleic acid adsorption experiments and hybrid imogolite-nucleic acid material aging processes (effects of drying-rehydration cycles, UV, temperature, etc.).Where to apply E-mailrose@cerege.frRequirementsResearch Field Environmental science » Earth science Education Level PhD or equivalentSkills/Qualifications

• Required Skills:

We seek a motivated candidate with a strong interest in interdisciplinary projects. The ideal profile includes:– A PhD in materials chemistry, surface chemistry, or materials science with a focus on the synthesis and characterization of materials/nanomaterials.– Proficiency in separation and characterization techniques for materials (microscopy (AFM, electron microscopy, etc.), X-ray diffraction, spectroscopy (infrared, X-ray, etc.), and light scattering/diffraction techniques).– Prior experience handling silicate- or phosphate-based minerals is an advantage.– Initiative, scientific rigor, and the ability to work effectively in a team.Research Field Environmental science » Earth scienceAdditional InformationWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute CEREGE CNRS Country France City Aix en provence Postal Code 13545 GeofieldContact CityAix en provence WebsiteStreetAvenue Louis PHILIBERT Postal Code13545 E-Mailrose@cerege.fr Mobile Phone+33618223516STATUS: EXPIREDShare this page

Expected salary

Location

Aix-en-Provence

Job date

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 07:47:03 GMT

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