Modeling of the dispersion of pheromones in cultivated areas in order to improve the effectiveness of biocontrol products

This phD work is part of an ecological approach to crop management. It will draw on the skills developed within the So Ph'air (Solutions for Pheromones Analysis in Air) joint laboratory between M2i Group and IMT Mines Alès (IPREM laboratory, UMR 5254 CNRS, in Pau).
The use of pheromones incorporated in various treatment media (solid diffusion matrices, spray solutions) is a rapidly developing biocontrol solution as an alternative to the use of pesticides. These pheromones are designed for use in cultivated areas to protect crops from insect pests, by inducing sexual confusion in these insects, thereby reducing their reproduction. This biocontrol solution, which does not eradicate the pest from the cultivated area but prevents its population from increasing, is known to be respectful of biodiversity.
Modeling pheromone diffusion and dispersion phenomena in the field is essential in order to estimate the zone of action and persistence over time of pheromones at a concentration sufficient to maintain efficacy while minimizing the dose applied.

Thesis topic

The aim of the thesis is to model the dispersion of pheromones in a cultivated area.
To achieve this, the PhD student will draw on known physics equations describing transfer processes to develop a 3D model applicable to the case studied, and on the results of laboratory and on-site tests carried out during a previous thesis.
To this end, he or she may code his or her own algorithms or use multiphysics modeling software used in the laboratory.
This thesis also includes an experimental part, necessary to acquire certain model input parameters (transfer coefficients, partition constant, air velocity, etc.) and to validate the results obtained by the model in the field.

The work will be carried out in IPREM laboratory,UMR 5254, in Pau

https://iprem.univ-pau.fr/fr/index.html

https://www.mines-ales.fr

The candidate will hold an engineering degree or a research master's preferably in Process Engineering, with a solid knowledge of material transfer phenomena (diffusion, adsorption/desorption). Modeling skills are essential. Knowledge of Comsol software would be appreciated. Knowledge of analytical chemistry would be a plus. He/she must have demonstrated an aptitude for research during his/her studies. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate autonomy, rigor, curiosity, excellent communication skills (oral and written, in French and English) and teamwork.