PhD Proposal : Flow kinematic in 3D porous media

Framework The doctoral student will be registered at the doctoral school of Aix-Marseille University (ED 353, Engineer Science : Mechanics, Physics, Micro and Nano Electronics) and will be based in the RECOVER unit of INRAE PACA. This research unit is equipped with experimental benches and technical means for the characterization and study of porous material and their mechanical properties. RECOVER is an active research team composed of more than 75 permanent staff (researchers, engineers, and professors) and about 40 non-permanent scholars (PhD students, post-docs and technical support staff). The lab is located in Le Tholonet, few kilometers from Aix-en-Provence and close to Marseille (south of France). The PhD is scheduled to start in October 2026 (with some flexibility) for a period of 36 months. Depending on the work progress, a master student may be recruited and supervised by the PhD candidate during the course of the PhD. The PhD will also benefit from a good quality of life, enriching interactions in an international environment, with a working site in an outstanding natural setting and a quality company restaurant. Expected profile and requirements for the position We are looking for a candidate with a master of research or graduate in mechanics – fluid mechanics – geotechnical engineering. The candidate is expected to have a potent inclination for experiments and strong knowledge in fluid mechanics. A training course in mixing, transport processes or a past experience in laboratory work will be profitable. The PhD student will be involved at all stages of the project : experimental setup design, sample preparation, and numerical image analysis (PIV, particle tracking, 3D reconstruction). Expected skills : motivation for research work, faculty for working independently and in a team, capability to formulate concepts, curiosity, constructive criticism, perseverance and scientific rigour. A good level in English is mandatory. Application Applicants should submit i) a CV, ii) a cover letter (in English or French) describing interests ans qualifications related to the position. Inquiries and applications should be sent by email to : Mathieu SOUZY Pierre PHILIPPE mathieu.souzy@inrae.fr pierre.philippe@inrae.fr