Postdoctoral Researcher – Development of High-Value-Added Porous Cellulosic Materials Derived from the Paper Industry at CNRS/IMT Mines Albi, France

Summary

The RAPSODEE research centre at IMT Mines Albi, in partnership with CNRS, seeks a postdoctoral researcher for a 12‑month fixed‑term contract starting 1 December 2026. The project focuses on combining cellulose aerogels with porous fibrous foams derived from paper‑industry waste to create bio‑based composites with high porosity, mechanical strength, and thermal insulation potential. The role involves literature review, mastering the centre’s processing methods, developing protocols, studying processing parameters, and presenting results at meetings and conferences. Candidates must hold a PhD in materials or process engineering, have 1‑4 years of relevant experience, and possess strong English communication skills. The position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,041–€4,216, 44 days of leave, remote‑work options, transport cost coverage, and a mobility allowance.

Key Facts

Department	RAPSODEE research centre
Position Type	Postdoctoral Researcher
Discipline	Materials Science and Engineering; Process Engineering
Research Area	High-Value-Added Porous Cellulosic Materials
Degree Required	PhD
Experience	1–4 years
Salary	€3,041–€4,216 gross per month
Funding	Salary
Contract Duration	12 months
Language	English
Deadline	2026-10-16

About the Project

The project aims to develop high‑value‑added porous cellulosic materials by integrating cellulose aerogels with porous fibrous foams made from paper‑industry residues. By optimizing processing parameters, the research seeks to produce bio‑based composites that combine high porosity, mechanical strength, and effective thermal insulation, potentially offering sustainable alternatives for insulation applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Review relevant scientific literature
• Learn and apply the cellulose‑aerogel processing method developed at RAPSODEE
• Develop and implement a protocol for combining the two porous structures
• Study how processing parameters affect material texture and physical properties
• Present progress at project meetings
• Disseminate results through conferences and publications

Required Skills

• PhD in materials science and engineering or process engineering
• Strong interest in experimental research
• Significant experience developing and/or characterising polymeric materials
• Scientific rigour and independence
• Teamwork ability
• Strong oral and written English communication skills
• Experience with supercritical fluids (advantage)

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a PhD in materials science and engineering or process engineering, 1–4 years of experience in developing or characterising polymeric materials, a strong interest in experimental research, and excellent oral and written English skills. Candidates should be able to work independently and as part of a team, and may have experience with supercritical fluids, though this is optional.

Benefits

• 44 days of annual leave and RTT
• Remote‑work arrangements and compensation
• Coverage of 75% of transport costs
• Sustainable mobility allowance up to €300
• Open to applicants with official disability‑worker status

About the Employer

CNRS / RAPSODEE, IMT Mines Albi is a joint research unit located in Albi, Tarn, France, focusing on advanced materials research, including cellulose‑based composites and porous structures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the contract duration?

The position is a 12‑month fixed‑term contract.

What is the salary range?

The gross monthly salary is €3,041–€4,216, depending on experience.

When does the position start?

The start date is 1 December 2026.

What benefits are offered?

Benefits include 44 days of annual leave, remote‑work options, 75% transport cost coverage, and a mobility allowance up to €300.