France – PhD in Thermophotovoltaics at PROMES Laboratory (CNRS)

University: CNRS (PROMES Laboratory)Country: FranceDeadline: Not specifiedFields: Thermal Sciences, Physics, Optics, Energy Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials ScienceTopic: France – PhD in Thermophotovoltaics at PROMES Laboratory (CNRS)Fields: Thermal Sciences, Physics, Optics, Energy Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials SciencePosition: PhDCountry: europeDeadline: Not specifiedMain Category: natural & physical sciencesUniversity: CNRS (PROMES Laboratory)Real Country: France—Are you passionate about pioneering sustainable energy solutions and eager to contribute to the next generation of high-efficiency solar energy technology? If you are motivated by the challenge of bridging theoretical research with hands-on experimentation in the field of thermophotovoltaics, this PhD opportunity at the PROMES Laboratory (CNRS) in France could be the perfect step for your academic and professional growth.About The University Or Research InstituteThe PROMES Laboratory, affiliated with the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), is located in Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via, France. CNRS is internationally recognized for its cutting-edge research across a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines, and PROMES stands out as a leader in concentrated solar energy and high-temperature systems. The laboratory is renowned for its unique experimental infrastructure, including high-flux solar furnaces and platforms dedicated to solar thermophotovoltaic research. PROMES provides a dynamic and collaborative research environment, with strong ties to leading French and European research institutions. Its location in the scenic Pyrenees offers not only a stimulating academic setting but also an exceptional quality of life.France itself is a hub for scientific innovation and offers a welcoming environment for international researchers. With its robust research funding, vibrant culture, and high standard of living, France is an attractive destination for pursuing advanced studies and building a global scientific network.Research Topic and SignificanceThe core focus of this PhD project is the design and integration of radiative cavities for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) systems. TPV technology is at the forefront of direct thermal-to-electric energy conversion, offering a promising pathway for efficient and compact renewable energy systems. Recent advances in TPV cell efficiency have paved the way for practical applications, but significant challenges remain in transferring laboratory breakthroughs to real-world systems.Radiative cavities are crucial for optimizing the performance of TPV systems, as they govern the transfer of thermal radiation from the emitter to the photovoltaic cells. The geometry and optical properties of these cavities directly impact energy conversion efficiency, photon recycling, and overall system losses. Addressing these challenges requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining advanced modeling, optical engineering, and experimental validation.The significance of this research lies in its potential to enhance the efficiency and practicality of solar-driven TPV systems, contributing to the global transition toward sustainable energy technologies. By advancing our understanding of radiative heat transfer in complex geometries and developing experimentally validated designs, this project aims to bridge the gap between theoretical models and deployable energy solutions.Project DetailsThe PhD will be conducted within the PROMES Laboratory (CNRS), under the supervision of Dr. Maxime Giteau, Dr. Alexis Vossier, and Dr. Alain Dollet. The project is part of the ANR-funded DIVERSITY initiative, in collaboration with LAAS (Toulouse) and IES (Montpellier), bringing together expertise in thermophotovoltaic cells, photonic structures, and energy-conversion systems.The Research Will Unfold In Three Main Stages **Numerical Modeling:** The candidate will develop and utilize simulation tools (such as ray tracing and radiative transfer modeling) to analyze how cavity geometry, reflectivity, and emitter characteristics affect radiative flux and efficiency. The focus will be on optimizing flux uniformity and minimizing optical losses. **Experimental Design and Construction:** The project will involve the mechanical and optical design of a laboratory TPV cavity subsystem, material selection, and assembly. The candidate will integrate high-temperature emitters, reflective cavity walls, and TPV cells, and will be responsible for instrumentation and performance diagnostics. **Integration and Validation:** The final phase will see the integration of the cavity subsystem into a solar thermophotovoltaic platform at PROMES. Experiments under concentrated solar radiation will test system efficiency and stability, with results feeding back into improved design and understanding.Throughout the project, the candidate will gain hands-on experience in high-temperature energy systems, advanced instrumentation, and collaborative research, working alongside leading experts in the field.Candidate ProfileIdeal Candidates Will Possess– A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in thermal sciences, physics, optics, energy engineering, or a closely related discipline.– A strong background in heat transfer, optics, or solar energy systems.– Demonstrated interest in experimental research and system design.– Programming proficiency (MATLAB, Python, or similar).– Experience with ray-tracing optical simulations (such as Zemax) or experimental instrumentation is a plus.– Essential qualities include curiosity, scientific rigor, autonomy, and motivation to work at the intersection of modeling and experimentation.This opportunity is particularly suited for candidates eager to develop a multidisciplinary skill set and contribute to the advancement of renewable energy technologies.Application ProcessThe position is open for a flexible start date in September 2026 and is funded for 36 months. To apply, candidates are required to send a CV and a tailored motivation letter to the supervisors listed in the official advertisement.For further details and application instructions, please refer to the official LinkedIn post by Dr. Maxime Giteau:https://www.linkedin.com/posts/maxime-giteau-a2177483_phd-offer-ugcPost-7440010049344831488-DdCqConclusionThis PhD position at PROMES Laboratory, CNRS, offers a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research at the interface of modeling and experimentation in thermophotovoltaic systems. Candidates who are passionate about renewable energy and eager to develop expertise in both theoretical and practical aspects of energy conversion are strongly encouraged to apply. For those interested in similar opportunities, keep an eye on updates from PROMES and CNRS, as well as the broader European research community.Questions & AnswersQuestion: What makes France an attractive destination for pursuing a PhD in energy engineering?France is known for its world-class research institutions, robust funding for scientific research, and a collaborative academic environment. The country’s commitment to sustainable energy and technological innovation makes it an ideal place to advance your career in energy engineering.Question: What are the main research facilities available at PROMES Laboratory?PROMES Laboratory boasts unique experimental infrastructure, including high-flux solar furnaces and dedicated platforms for solar thermophotovoltaic research, enabling advanced studies in concentrated solar energy and high-temperature systems.Question: What kind of expertise will I gain during this PhD?You will develop skills in radiative heat transfer modeling, optical cavity design, experimental instrumentation, and hands-on system integration for high-temperature energy conversion.Question: Is this PhD position fully funded?Yes, the position is funded for 36 months under the ANR DIVERSITY project, ensuring financial support throughout your doctoral studies.Question: What programming skills are required or beneficial for this position?Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar programming languages is required. Familiarity with ray-tracing optical simulation tools such as Zemax is considered a bonus.Question: Are international applicants eligible to apply?Yes, the position is open to qualified candidates from around the world who meet the academic and skill requirements.Question: How is the research project structured?The project combines numerical modeling, experimental design and construction, and integration/validation of a TPV subsystem under realistic solar conditions.Question: Where can I find more details or apply for this position?Refer to the official LinkedIn post for complete application instructions and further information:https://www.linkedin.com/posts/maxime-giteau-a2177483_phd-offer-ugcPost-7440010049344831488-DdCqWant to calculate your PhD admission chances? Try it here:https://phdfinder.com/2026/03/12/phd-admission-chance-calculator/We’re an independent team helping students find opportunities.Found this opportunity helpful? Support us with a coffee!Also SeeComprehensive Guide to Graduate Application Deadlines for US Universities (Fall 2026 Intake)France – PhD in Engineering and Materials Science at University of Perpignan Via DomitiaFrance – PhD in Optical Metasurfaces at Jean Monnet UniversityFrance – PhD in Thin Film Tandem Solar Cells at Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de LyonItaly – Postdoctoral Research in Nano-Optics at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia