PhD Position in Biocatalyzed Synthesis of Multifunctional Biobased Polyesters - Job Opportunity at URD Agro-Biotechnologies Industrielles (ABI) - AgroParisTech

Pomacle, France
Full-time
Entry-level
Posted: March 8, 2025
On-site
EUR 30,000-35,000 per year (standard French doctoral contract rates)

Benefits

Collaborative research environment with international partners
Access to state-of-the-art biorefinery facilities
Public transportation shuttle service
Professional development through international collaborations
Academic research resources and network access

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop novel LGO-based monomers with specific structural features
Implement and optimize enzyme-catalyzed polymerization processes
Conduct polymer synthesis and characterization experiments
Perform post-polymerization modifications and property analysis
Evaluate and document biodegradation and recycling pathways
Collaborate with international research partners
Present findings at scientific conferences and prepare publications

Requirements

Education

Master's degree in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, green chemistry or related field

Experience

Research experience in organic and/or polymer synthesis

Required Skills

Organic synthesis expertise Polymer characterization techniques Biocatalysis knowledge Interdisciplinary collaboration abilities Scientific communication skills
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The bio-based polymer industry is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected CAGR of 19% through 2028, driven by sustainability initiatives and regulatory pressure on traditional plastics Enzymatic polymerization techniques are gaining prominence as companies seek greener manufacturing processes Industry investment in sustainable material development has increased by 45% in the past two years The levoglucosenone (LGO) market is expanding with current production at 50T/year, indicating growing industrial adoption of bio-based platform chemicals

Role Significance

Typically part of a 4-6 person research group with access to broader departmental resources and international collaborators
Doctoral researcher position with significant project ownership and potential for pioneering contributions to the field

Key Projects

Development of novel bio-based polymer synthesis pathways Optimization of enzymatic polymerization processes Creation of biodegradable materials with controlled degradation profiles Integration of sustainable chemistry principles in industrial applications

Success Factors

Strong foundation in organic chemistry and polymer science Ability to work independently while maintaining collaborative relationships Innovative problem-solving approach to complex synthesis challenges Excellent documentation and scientific communication skills Adaptability to work across multiple disciplines

Market Demand

High demand with increasing industry focus on sustainable materials and green chemistry expertise

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Organic synthesis expertise for novel monomer development Polymer characterization capabilities for material analysis Biocatalysis knowledge for enzymatic polymerization Scientific writing and presentation skills for research dissemination

Beneficial Skills

Computational modeling for polymer property prediction Analytical chemistry techniques Project management skills Knowledge of industrial scale-up processes

Unique Aspects

Integration of entire value chain from monomer design to biodegradation
Access to industrial-scale biorefinery facilities
International collaboration network with leading European institutions
Direct involvement in emerging sustainable materials market

Career Growth

3-year doctoral program with potential for academic or industry advancement within 5-7 years post-graduation

Potential Next Roles

Post-doctoral researcher in sustainable materials R&D scientist in bio-based materials industry Technical specialist in green chemistry Research group leader in academia or industry

Company Overview

URD Agro-Biotechnologies Industrielles (ABI) - AgroParisTech

URD ABI is a leading research unit specializing in agro-biotechnology and sustainable chemistry, positioned within Europe's largest biorefinery complex

Recognized center of excellence in bio-based materials research with strong industry connections
Strategic location in France's bio-economy hub with significant European research partnerships
Academic research environment with strong industry collaboration focus and international networking opportunities
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