Candidates can apply until November 30th, the selected scholarship holder will work in person in Campinas (SP), on the CNPEM campus
The Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), with the support of the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP), offers a PhD scholarship in highly porous nanocomposites. The project is coordinated by the Brazilian Nanotechnology National Laboratory (LNNano), which is part of CNPEM, under the responsibility of researcher Rubia Figueredo Gouveia.
The scholarship, which will last 36 months, is linked to the regular FAPESP project Highly porous and oleophilic cryogels obtained from lignocellulosic nanostructures, under process number 24/21240-4. The project is a cooperation between CNPEM and the postgraduate program in nanosciences and advanced materials at the Federal University of ABC (UFABC).
Description of activities
The selected scholarship holder will work on the development of highly porous and environmentally friendly nanocomposites based on lignocellulosic nanofibrils (LCNF) and nanolignin (NL).
The main objective of the project is to create a 100% renewable material, with a controlled porous structure and high surface area, to be used as a filter in the capture and removal of hydrophobic pollutants, such as oils.
The researcher’s activities will involve all stages of the project: the production of nanocomposites by freeze-drying (cryogels); the optimization of its mechanical and structural properties; morphological characterization by microscopy (SEM and AFM) and X-ray microtomography; and carrying out assays to evaluate the oil absorption capacity and kinetics.
Additionally, the project foresees the advanced in situ characterization of the interaction of materials with fluids using 4D X-ray tomography at Sirius, at the Mogno beamline, in addition to the evaluation of the life cycle of nanocomposites through biodegradation assays in soil.
Application requirements
Candidates must have a master’s degree in chemistry, materials engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field.
Experience with the production and characterization of cellulose and lignin-based materials is desirable. Knowledge of microscopy techniques (AFM, SEM), mechanical testing or freeze-drying will be considered an asset. We are looking for a profile with an interest in applied research, sustainability and the development of renewable materials.
The position offers the opportunity to participate in a cutting-edge project focused on environmental impact, utilizing CNPEM’s world-class research infrastructure.
Application Instructions
Applications must include: (i) a cover letter highlighting previous experience in the project area (2 pages); (ii) curriculum vitae (CV), with links to the Lattes Curriculum and other academic profiles; and (iii) indication of two professionals to send recommendation letters and (iv) undergraduate and master’s degree transcripts.
Applications should be sent to the email rubia.gouveia@lnnano.cnpem.br with the subject “PhD scholarship in highly porous nanocomposites”.
Deadlines
Applications must be submitted by November 30, 2025, exclusively to the address rubia.gouveia@lnnano.cnpem.br.
Scholarship Details
The FAPESP scholarship offers a monthly stipend of R$5,790.00, plus a technical reserve equivalent to 10% of the annual value of the scholarship (https://fapesp.br/en/postdoc). Candidates can submit questions to rubia.gouveia@lnnano.cnpem.br.
About CNPEM
The Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) is home to a state-of-the-art, multi-user and multidisciplinary scientific environment and works on different fronts within the Brazilian National System for Science, Technology and Innovation. A social organization overseen by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI), CNPEM is driven by research that impacts the areas of health, energy, renewable materials, and sustainability. It is responsible for Sirius, the largest assembly of scientific equipment constructed in the country, and is currently constructing Project Orion, a laboratory complex for advanced pathogen research. Highly specialized science and engineering teams, sophisticated infrastructure open to the scientific community, strategic lines of investigation, innovative projects involving the productive sector, and training for researchers and students are the pillars of this institution that is unique in Brazil and able to serve as a bridge between knowledge and innovation. CNPEM’s research and development activities are carried out through its four National Laboratories: Synchrotron Light (LNLS), Biosciences (LNBio), Nanotechnology (LNNano), Biorenewables (LNBR), as well as its Technology Unit (DAT) and the Ilum School of Science — an undergraduate program in Science and Technology supported by the Ministry of Education (MEC).
