Postdoctoral researcher in polymer chemistry

• Conduct an active literature survey, keeping up to date with relevant articles and patents in the fields of flame-retardant additives, polymer formulation, and recycling.
• Develop experimental protocols in discussion with involved experts, using findings from the SSbD toolkit to guide additive selection and experimental priorities.
• Synthesize and characterize novel FR additives using basic organic synthesis, including phosphorylation reactions where relevant.
• Prepare polymer formulations by melt compounding and process specimens for testing.
• Evaluate fire performance using UL 94 and limiting oxygen index (LOI) testing.
• Characterize thermal stability, thermal transitions, and mechanical and thermomechanical properties using appropriate analytical and testing methods.
• Assess recyclability through repeated melt compounding or extrusion, tracking changes in processability, material properties, and flame-retardant performance.
• Interpret data and plan subsequent experiments in discussion with experts, relating experimental results to the SSbD assessment.
• Execute experiments/tasks in a timely and efficient manner according to the overall project planning.
• Prepare presentations for meetings/reports.
• Publish and valorize research outcomes (scientific publications and/or patents) whenever appropriate and achievable.
• Ensure compliance with the institution's Health & Safety Policy.

What they ask

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Sciences, or a closely related field.
• Background in organic chemistry; preferentially with knowledge of polymer synthesis and formulation.
• Practical experience in organic synthesis, such as phosphorylation reactions using phosphorus oxychloride (POCl₃).
• Hands-on experience in polymer processing and melt compounding to incorporate additives into polymer formulations.
• Experience in flame testing (UL 94, LOI) and thermal, mechanical, and thermomechanical characterization of polymers.
• Background knowledge of flame-retardant additives and/or phosphorus chemistry is an asset.
• Knowledge of polymer recyclability assessment, including repeated melt processing and evaluation of retained material properties and fire performance, is an asset.
• Interest in applying safe and sustainable by design (SSbD) principles to the development and evaluation of additives.
• Result-driven character capable of translating theory to practice and vice versa, and able to find solutions.
• Proactive, motivated, independent, and an excellent team player who enjoys working in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Enjoys hands-on laboratory work and can design, execute, and interpret experiments, preferably using design of experiments (DOE) and Bayesian optimization to guide experimental planning.
• Fluent in English and eager to write scientific papers and/or patents.