Doctorant-e

Discipline: Fluid Mechanics & Process Engineering Location: Douai (France) & Mons (Belgium) Contract: 36-month doctoral position
About IMT Nord Europe Public institution under the French Ministry of Economy, Finance, and Industrial & Digital Sovereignty, IMT Nord Europe focuses on ethical engineering education, innovative R&D, and territorial development. Located at the heart of Europe (1h from Paris, 30m from Brussels, 1.5h from London), it offers 20,000 m² of research facilities in digital science, energy, environment, and materials. Learn more: www.imt-nord-europe.fr.

Research Context The position is within the Center for Energy & Environment (CERI EE), in the Energy, Fluids & Transfer Axis and Complex Fluid Flow Lab. In collaboration with the University of Mons (Belgium), the team researches flow-based bioprocess intensification, particularly for microalgae cultivation—a major ecological transition lever converting CO₂ into valuable biomass. However, photobioreactor (PBR) development faces challenges: mixing limitations, uneven light distribution, and shear stress.
Oscillating Grid Devices (OGDs) provide a solution by generating homogeneous turbulence, enhancing mass transfer while protecting microalgae. Previous work confirms the potential of oscillating fractal grids to improve turbulence and efficiency.
PhD Project: OPTIFROG This project aims to optimize fractal-grid photobioreactors through:
Hydrodynamic characterization & modeling (experimental + numerical);
Multi-grid agitation & lighting strategies;
Biological performance validation.
The goal: an innovative, scalable, energy-efficient PBR for sustainable bioprocess intensification.
Why Join?
Interdisciplinary research (hydrodynamics, biology, modeling);
International collaboration (IMT Nord Europe + University of Mons);
Cutting-edge facilities for experimental & numerical work.