Ph.D. Student (M/F): Thesis Topic: Development of Innovative Bio-Based Additives for Plastics

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Polymer Process Aids (PPAs) are essential additives in polymer processing, improving flow, reducing surface defects, and optimizing the mechanical properties of final materials. Until now, the most effective PPAs have primarily been fluoropolymer-based, but their use is now restricted by environmental regulations. There is thus an urgent need to develop non-fluorinated, bio-based, and high-performance alternatives while maintaining the physical and rheological properties of plastics.
At the same time, the mechanisms of action of current PPAs remain only partially understood. Identifying the active species generated during their use could enable the design of ad hoc molecules that are more effective and tailored to industrial requirements.
This PhD project is part of a collaboration with a global leader in specialty chemicals, aiming to:
Synthesize new bio-based PPA additives via short and scalable synthetic routes (≤ 3 steps).
Characterize their efficiency in comparison with fluorinated PPAs, targeting specific properties.
Elucidate the mechanisms of action of existing PPAs and propose new directly effective active species.
The thesis work will be structured around three main axes:
Design and synthesis of bio-based additives
Identification of active species and mechanisms of action
Performance evaluation and comparison with fluorinated PPAs (in collaboration)
Candidate Profile
Education:
Master's degree (M2) or engineering degree in organic chemistry, polymer science, or green chemistry.
Technical Skills:
Experience in organic synthesis (purification, characterization).
Knowledge of polymer science (rheology, processing) is a plus.
Interest in molecular modeling (a strong advantage).
Personal Qualities:
Experimental rigor and ability to work in industrial collaboration.
Creativity in proposing innovative solutions.
Critical thinking (data interpretation, problem-solving).

Your Work Environment

The recruited PhD student (M/F) will carry out their work within the Organic Materials Department (DMO) of the Institute of Physics and Chemistry of Materials of Strasbourg (IPCMS), under the supervision of Dr. Stéphane Bellemin-Laponnaz. A collaboration with an industrial partner is planned, allowing the PhD student (M/F) to conduct short research stays for measurement campaigns.
IPCMS is a joint interdisciplinary research unit (University of Strasbourg - CNRS) comprising 5 departments and approximately 240 employees, including around 80 researchers and lecturer-researchers and 60 technical staff members. As a renowned research center in the fields of nanomaterials, nanoscience, and functional materials, IPCMS is located on the Cronenbourg campus in Strasbourg.
The Cronenbourg campus offers on-site university catering and easy access by public transportation.

Constraints and risks

Risks related to chemical synthesis, chemical handling, and laser/LED irradiation.
Travel within France and abroad for physico-chemical measurements is planned.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions