Thèse de doctorat en physique de la propagation des embolies dans les feuilles : imagerie rapide et microfluidique biomimétique (H/F)

About the role

This PhD position is based at the Institut de Physique de Nice (INPHYNI), a joint research unit of the CNRS and Université Côte d’Azur. The project focuses on the physics of air embolism propagation in leaf vascular networks. During drought, water circulating under tension in plant vessels can rupture, producing air bubbles that interrupt water transport and may spread through the leaf’s vascular system. The physical mechanisms controlling the speed and trajectory of these embolisms remain poorly understood.

The thesis is experimental and combines two complementary approaches: ultra-fast imaging of embolism events in real leaves, and biomimetic microfluidic devices reproducing the hydraulic properties of leaf networks. The work is part of the ERC Starting Grant EMBIOMO, dedicated to studying embolism dynamics and developing biomimetic models under controlled conditions.

Key facts

• Contract: doctoral contract (CDD Doctorant), 36 months
• Location: Nice, France (06200)
• Start date: 1 November 2026
• Application deadline: 19 August 2026, 23:59
• Salary: €2,300 gross per month
• Annual leave: 44 days (including RTT)

Research objectives

Embolism propagation in living leaves

The candidate will develop an imaging setup combining an ultra-fast camera with a slower camera to detect embolisation events, trigger rapid acquisitions, and measure their dynamics over time scales from several hours to a few microseconds. This includes designing and automating the experiment, synchronising cameras, optimising lighting, and developing image-processing methods to extract propagation trajectories and velocities. Several plant species and levels of vascular network branching will be studied. Complementary X-ray tomography and environmental scanning electron microscopy, using the Institute’s characterisation platforms, will link the observed dynamics to leaf anatomy.

Biomimetic microfluidic devices

Existing biomimetic systems strongly simplify the geometry, connectivity, and deformability of real vascular networks. The candidate will design and fabricate, mainly in PDMS, reticulated and hierarchical microfluidic networks with higher fidelity to biological leaves. Experiments will explore how network topology, channel sizes, constrictions, deformability, and evaporation fluxes influence embolism trajectories. Devices will be produced using INPHYNI’s microfabrication platform, which includes a clean room.

The two approaches will be closely connected: leaf observations guide the biomimetic design, while microfluidic experiments isolate and control the physical mechanisms of embolism propagation, creating new links between fluid mechanics, soft matter, microfluidics, and plant hydraulics.

Candidate profile

• Background in physics, fluid mechanics, biophysics, engineering sciences, or a related field
• Strong taste for experimental work and autonomy in designing experiments, identifying relevant parameters, and improving setups
• Scientific curiosity, rigour, initiative, and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment
• Experience in optics, fast imaging, image processing, scientific programming, microfluidics, or microfabrication is an asset
• Theoretical or numerical knowledge of fluid mechanics is also appreciated

Working environment

INPHYNI is a physics laboratory with broad activities in fluid mechanics, soft matter, biophysics, microfluidics, and interfacial phenomena. The recruited person will join a team of doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and scientists with theoretical and experimental profiles, with regular meetings to compare results and coordinate the project’s approaches.

The work will benefit from the Institute’s equipment, including an ultra-fast camera, imaging and characterisation platforms, and a microfabrication platform. Close collaboration with INRAE biologists and biomechanicians specialising in plant hydraulics and drought vulnerability will provide access to biological samples, plant physiology expertise, and support for interpreting results.

Offer details and benefits

• Offer reference: UMR7010-LUDKEI-004
• CNRS research section: Physics of complex and living matter
• Teleworking practice and compensation
• Transport: 75% of public transport costs covered, plus a sustainable mobility package up to €300
• The position is open to holders of a disability recognition certificate

How to apply

Applications must be submitted by 19 August 2026, 23:59. Please quote the offer reference UMR7010-LUDKEI-004 in your application.

Original vacancy