Postdoctoral Position in Monitoring of Heavy Metals Carried by Microplastics at INRAE – France

Summary

INRAE is offering a 12-month Postdoctoral Position in Monitoring of Heavy Metals Carried by Microplastics at the Animal Products Quality research unit (QuaPA) located in Saint-Genès-Champanelle, France. The role forms part of the ANR JCJC VECTOR project and focuses on developing an analytical workflow to monitor trace metal elements carried by microplastics in complex biological matrices. Key responsibilities include producing intentionally contaminated model microplastics, optimizing extraction methods, and comparing imaging and mass spectrometry methods. Candidates should hold a PhD and demonstrate proficiency in analytical chemistry techniques, particularly mass spectrometry, alongside data processing skills. The contract starts on April 1, 2027, with a monthly gross salary starting at €3,135.81. The application deadline is October 28, 2026.

Key Facts

Department	Animal Products Quality research unit (QuaPA)
Position Type	Postdoctoral Position
Discipline	Analytical Chemistry / Environmental Science
Research Area	Microplastics and Heavy Metal Monitoring
Degree Required	PhD
Experience	Initial experience in the study and characterisation of plastic particles is appreciated.
Salary	Starting at €3,135.81 gross per month
Funding	ANR JCJC VECTOR project
Contract Duration	12 months
Deadline	2026-10-28
Required Documents	CV, Motivation letter
Employer Address	63122 Saint-Genès-Champanelle, France
Employer Contact	Christelle Planche, [email protected]

About the Project

The ANR JCJC VECTOR project (2026–2030) investigates the vectorization of chemical contaminants, specifically heavy metals adsorbed onto microplastics, during food waste recycling such as insect-based bioconversion. The postdoctoral researcher will develop analytical workflows to identify and measure trace metal elements carried by microplastics within complex biological matrices.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce model microplastics intentionally contaminated with trace metal elements.
• Optimize a robust extraction method for microplastics within a complex biological matrix.
• Compare imaging and mass spectrometry methods regarding performance and detection limits for trace metal elements adsorbed onto microplastics.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in analytical chemistry techniques, especially mass spectrometry.
• Knowledge of imaging, microscopy, and histology.
• Skills in statistics, data processing, and scientific report writing.
• Ability to work independently with strong organizational skills and team spirit.

Who Should Apply

Researchers with a PhD and background in analytical chemistry (specifically mass spectrometry) and microscopy who have skills in scientific data analysis and interest or experience in studying plastic particles and micro-contaminants.

Benefits

• Up to 30 days of annual leave plus 15 days of 'Reduction of Working Time' for full-time staff.
• Parenting support (CESU childcare, leisure services).
• Skills development systems including training and career advice.
• Social assistance, loans, holiday vouchers, and preferential accommodation rates.
• Sports, cultural activities, and collective catering.
• Transport accessibility, parking facilities, and services for cyclists.

About the Employer

INRAE (French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment) is a public research establishment with 12,000 employees across 18 regional centers in France, specializing in agricultural, food, and environmental sciences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting salary for this position?

The gross remuneration starts at €3,135.81 per month.

What is the contract duration and start date?

The contract is for 12 months, beginning on April 1, 2027.

What documents are required to apply?

Applicants must submit a CV and a motivation letter.

Does the position involve travel?

Yes, travel to French partner laboratories is expected.