Postdoctoral Research Position: recovery and valorization of metals contained in hydrotreating catalysts
IFP Energies nouvelles is offering an 18-month postdoctoral position based at its Solaize research center, focused on closed-loop recycling of strategic metals. The position is part of the “Strategic Metals” research axis of the French PEPR Recyclage program.
The successful candidate will contribute to a research project dedicated to the recovery and valorization of metals contained in hydrotreating catalysts, under the supervision of Anne-Sophie Gay (IFP Energies nouvelles). The work will be carried out in collaboration with academic and industrial partners, including BRGM and the Institut de Chimie Séparative de Marcoule (ICSM), which are involved in complementary studies on bioleaching and metal purification.
Responsibilities
Development of a Metal Recovery Process
- Develop a simple, efficient, and environmentally friendly process for the selective dissolution of metals while minimizing degradation of the alumina (Al₂O₃) support.
- Investigate the feasibility of processing metal sulfides.
Metal Separation and Valorization
- Design bimetallic precursor solutions suitable for catalyst impregnation while minimizing the need for complete metal purification.
- When necessary, develop separation processes to remove impurities from polymetallic solutions (Mo-Ni or Mo-Co) for reuse in the production of new catalysts.
Characterization and Mechanistic Studies
- Investigate metal speciation using advanced characterization techniques (Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), etc.) to optimize the process and gain a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms.
Candidate Profile
- PhD in hydrometallurgy, chemistry, or a related discipline.
- Initial research experience in hydrometallurgy or metal recovery processes.
- Strong background in solution chemistry.
- Knowledge of catalysis would be considered an asset.
- Experience with advanced characterization techniques and thermodynamic modeling.
Project Context
This position is part of the CYCLALOOP research project, led by Anne-Sophie Gay (IFP Energies nouvelles) and Mathilde Laurent-Brocq (CNRS – Institut de Chimie et des Matériaux Paris Est). The project aims to develop innovative solutions to improve the recycling of strategic metals from a wide range of waste streams, including electronic waste, spent catalysts, and industrial alloys, while reducing the environmental impact of recycling processes.
Project details: https://www.pepr-recyclage.fr/projet/metaux-strategiques/#p2
