Our societies rely on fossil fuels to generate most primary energy, contributing to CO2 emissions during combustion. The urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy sources, such as solar energy, offers immense potential if harnessed effectively. Photosynthesis, which converts light, water, and CO2 into energy-rich chemical compounds, serves as an inspiration for artificial photosynthesis. However, current systems often depend on costly noble metals for both catalysts and photosensitizers. The goal of this project is to eliminate the use of platinum-group metals and to develop sustainable organic dyes that will be covalently linked to robust lanthanide-based catalysts within dyads to achieve CO2 reduction into fuels under solar irradiation.
The internship will focus on the design and synthesis of functionalized organic chromophores, engineered to be grafted onto accessible trivalent lanthanide complexes. The resulting photoactive compounds will then be characterized and evaluated in model photocatalytic reactions to optimize performance. This multidisciplinary approach will engage advanced skills in organic chemistry, fundamentals of inorganic chemistry, and knowledge of homogeneous catalysis methodology. The student will thus be able to develop scientific autonomy and mastery of analytical tools for fundamental research.
-Desired profile-
Master’s degree (2nd year), specializing in chemistry, molecular chemistry, inorganic chemistry, or equivalent
Interest in coordination chemistry, spectroscopy, or spectroelectrochemical characterization
Experimental rigor, ability to work independently
Interest in teamwork and the scientific approach
-Application process-
Send CV + cover letter to jules.moutet@cea.fr.
Specify in the subject line: 'Application M2 Internship – [Student’s Name]'