Missions

This one-year postdoc contract will be perfomred in collaboration between IC2MP and SYENSQO. It aims to develop a catalytic reaction to produce bio-based surfactants from natural polysaccharides for various applications in Home Personal Care.
Building on previous works, the strategy at IC2MP will consist of a catalytic controlled depolymerization of polysaccharides to obtain oligosaccharides with desired molecular weights and their further functionalization. Industrial catalysts will be preferentially used. The catalytic reactions will be carried out in autoclaves and monitored by size-exclusion chromatography, NMR, and mass spectrometry. In this context, the project will benefit from access to the PLATINA analysis platform belonging to IC2MP. The physicochemical properties of the oligosaccharides, as well as their biodegradability, will be evaluated by SYENSQO.

Activités

The research will begin with a literature review to (1) assess the most effective industrial catalysts for this type of reaction and (2) identify the scientific and technological challenges associated with this research. The candidate will then be in charge of performing the first catalytic tests. Initially, homogeneous acid catalysts will be used. This phase aims to optimize all reaction parameters such as pressure, temperature, concentration, atmosphere, etc. In the second phase, the candidate will focus on using heterogeneous catalysts. Throughout these research tasks, performance criteria such as reaction selectivity, catalyst consumption, energy consumption, and reactor productivity will be particularly considered to guide the research. Regular working meetings between IC2MP and SYENSQO, either remotely or in person, will take place to ensure the smooth progress of the research project and, if necessary, adjust the initial objectives. At the end of the study, the candidate will produce a report to be submitted to SYENSQO.

Compétences

Holder of PhD in chemistry, the candidate should have expertise in catalysis applied to fine/organic chemistry and a strong interest in analysis (SEC, HPLC, NMR, mass spectrometry). Prior experience in polysaccharide or sugar chemistry would be an advantage. The candidate should also be curious, rigorous, and able to work as part of an international team.

Contexte de travail

(1) The Institut de Chimie des Milieux et Matériaux de Poitiers (IC2MP) is a joint research unit between CNRS and the University of Poitiers, focusing on the design of sustainable reactions/products (https://ic2mp.labo.univ-poitiers.fr ). It is an interdisciplinary institute working (1) on the development of eco-efficient technologies (catalysis, bio-solvents, renewable energies, alternative technologies, etc.) and (2) on the transfer and bioaccumulation of organic molecules in ecosystems. IC2MP has the capacity to globally integrate the key steps of a chemical compound transformation process by providing scientific and technological solutions, from design to environmental implications.
(2) SYENSQO is a science company developing groundbreaking solutions that enhance the way we live, work, travel, and play. Inspired by the scientific councils that Ernest Solvay initiated in 1911, we bring great minds together to push the limits of science and innovation for the benefit of our customers, with a diverse, global team of more than 13,000 associates. Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and consumer goods, planes, cars, batteries, smart devices, and healthcare applications. Our innovation power enables us to deliver on the ambition of a circular economy and explore breakthrough technologies that advance humanity.

Contraintes et risques

Chemical hazards
Good command of English
Occasional travel possible to Shanghai, China

Informations complémentaires

Nothing