Bioinorganic Chemistry · Optics and Photonics · Biophotonics
Project Description
This interdisciplinary project aims to develop and validate an integrated theranostic platform combining nanoparticles and terahertz (THz) imaging for real-time thermal control of laser-assisted bone regeneration.
The project comprises three components: (i) the design, synthesis, and characterization of nanoparticles suitable for bone repair; (ii) the adaptation and optimization of a single-shot 3D THz imaging system previously developed by the team for real-time thermal monitoring; and (iii) the validation of the integrated nanoparticles/laser/THz imaging platform in biological models of increasing complexity. Project details will be discussed with candidates selected for an interview.
This project offers unique training at the intersection of nanomaterials chemistry, terahertz photonics, and biology, within two complementary research teams. The selected candidate will have access to state-of-the-art facilities for synthesis, characterization, and THz imaging, and will be encouraged to disseminate their research findings in international journals and at international conferences.
Project Start
Starting January 2027 (flexible start date)
Research Supervisors
Annie Castonguay (Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie) and Roberto Morandotti (Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications)
Program of Study
This research project will be carried out as part of a customized PhD program at INRS.
Candidate Profile
In addition to meeting the university’s graduate program requirements, applicants must:
- Hold a master’s degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, engineering physics, biomedical engineering, materials science, or a related field;
- Demonstrate independence, rigor, and creativity;
- Be motivated to collaborate within an interdisciplinary team;
- Contribute actively to the writing of scientific articles;
- Present their results orally, through posters, and in written reports.
Candidates with knowledge or experience in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:
- Synthetic chemistry (experience in the preparation and characterization of metallic nanoparticles would be an asset);
- Optics and photonics (e.g., lasers, terahertz spectroscopy or imaging, ultrafast optics);
- Purification of compounds using various chromatographic methods;
- Characterization of compounds by nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry, and X-ray diffraction crystallography;
- Cell culture;
- Programming and data or image processing (e.g., Python, MATLAB);
- Good command of spoken and written English.
Financial Support
The selected candidate will receive financial support provided by INRS to its students and will be encouraged to apply for external scholarships (NSERC, CIHR, FRQ, etc.).
Location
The project will take place at both INRS campuses, in Laval and Varennes. The selected candidate will be required to divide their time between the two locations, with a flexible allocation of time based on the research activities and needs of the project.
Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie
531, boulevard des Prairies
Laval (Quebec) H7V 1B7
Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications
1650, boulevard Lionel-Boulet
Varennes (Quebec) J3X 1P7
Application Submission
Interested candidates may submit their applications using the online form below (application deadline: November 20, 2026). Applications will be reviewed by Prof. Annie Castonguay and Prof. Roberto Morandotti. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Please include:
- a cover letter (250–500 words) describing your interest in the project and the relevance of your background;
- your detailed CV (including publications and presentations, if applicable);
- your university transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s degrees);
- the contact information of two referees.
We encourage all qualified individuals to apply, particularly women, Indigenous peoples, members of visible or ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities.