A fully funded PhD at ICARE (CNRS) in Orléans measuring hydroxyl (OH) and nitrate (NO3) radicals using the HELIOS atmospheric simulation chamber — one of the most advanced photochemistry platforms in Europe.
The HELIOS chamber at ICARE simulates solar-radiation-driven atmospheric chemistry, and the laboratory hosts world-class spectroscopic instruments. The NO3 instrument is already operational (developed with NOAA, USA); the OH instrument — developed in collaboration with IGE Grenoble — is the focus of this PhD's installation and application. Research will cover kinetic studies of OH, NO3 and Criegee intermediates, generating data that feeds directly into atmospheric chemistry models. Minimum stipend €22,200/year net, which is a comfortable graduate income in Orléans.
Master's degree in chemistry, physics, atmospheric science or related. Experience in instrumentation, laser spectroscopy, or chemical kinetics is an asset. Proficiency in English required; French is helpful but not required.
Heads up: eligibility rules and deadlines change each cycle. Always cross-check the official application portal before you submit.
Read up on ICARE and the HELIOS chamber — understanding the facility is essential to writing a strong motivation letter.
Prepare your Master's transcript showing chemistry/physics coursework, especially any classes on spectroscopy, photochemistry, or analytical chemistry.
Draft a 1-2 page research statement explaining why this specific project — OH and NO3 radicals, HELIOS chamber — attracts you.
Update your CV to highlight any lab experience, especially with optical instruments, mass spectrometry, or gas-phase chemistry.
Contact two referees (a Master's thesis advisor and a science-course instructor work best) and brief them on the project.
Submit through the ADUM Network (adum.fr) before June 5, 2026. Include the research statement, CV, transcripts and reference letters.
Shortlisted candidates typically have a video interview with the PI and the ICARE chemistry group, covering research motivation and technical knowledge.
Most rejected applications fail on test scores, not credentials. Get a PBridge tutor to prepare you for the exams required for this scholarship.
Yes. French PhD contracts are open internationally. You'll apply through the ADUM network (the French doctoral application portal) and the host institution handles visa sponsorship if admitted.
No. The research is conducted in English and the PI communicates in English. However, integrating into daily life in Orléans is easier with some French; the university usually offers free French classes for international PhDs.
ICARE is a CNRS laboratory specialising in combustion and atmospheric chemistry. HELIOS is a large outdoor solar simulation chamber in Orléans — effectively a controllable piece of atmosphere. It's one of only a handful of such facilities worldwide, making this position scientifically valuable for your CV.
Helpful but not mandatory. The key skills are strong chemistry or physics fundamentals, willingness to work with complex instrumentation, and analytical thinking. Specific laser skills will be trained on the job.
You apply through the ADUM Network (adum.fr), which is the standard portal for French PhD applications. The ICARE team also accepts direct email contact with expressions of interest before the formal application.
Deadline: June 5, 2026
Apply on Official Site →