Research Scientist in mechanochemistry (F/H)

We are looking for a Research Scientist who wants to contribute to the successful delivery of value-added molecules for industry (including Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients) or their key intermediates, by the use of mechanochemical processing in batch and in continuous. A unique opportunity for you to work in a scientific area of great importance, innovative and disruptive, in a setting at the interface with the industrial needs, in an international and collaborative team.

The Research Scientistic will work under the responsibility of Dr. Evelina Colacino, on the development of sustainable methodologies for organic synthesis, with a special attention to the preparation of value-added compounds for the personal care and pharmaceutical industry at different scale (both batch and continuous).

Activities: As a Research Scientist (fix-term research scientist), you deal with the synthesis and development of the defined targets or key intermediates, and their characterization (including at the solid state). Your main research objectives aim to propose and design straightforward access (meaning specifically route scouting) by mechanochemistry in alternative to solution-based procedures and to improve the ecological footprint of each synthesis at laboratory and large scales. The daily synthesis work is performed at the Université de Montpellier (Charles Gerhardt Institute of Montpellier, ICGM) in France.

The research activity will mainly focus on:

• Design of scalable and green routes for the selected targets and/or key intermediates by mechanochemistry in alternative to solution-based processes currently used in the industry;

• Investigation of the mechanochemical process parameters to access them at different scale;

• Green Chemistry metrics applied to the processes developed within the project ;

• Solution and solid state characterization of the target molecules or/and key intermediates;

• Process development to access new pharmaceutical forms

• Knowledge of RAMAN spectroscopy.

To qualify for the position, the doctoral degree in a relevant field such as medicinal (mechano)chemistry and preparative organic (mechano)chemistry is a must. Holding a PhD and/or post-doctoral experience in mechanochemistry will be considered meritorious for this position. Experience in green chemistry, mechanochemical processing (including twin screw extrusion) and solid state characterization are mandatory. Knowledge of green chemistry metrics and sustainability indicators.

Ability to work independently but also in close collaboration with the group members, in international environement. Planification and organization of the own work, take own initiatives and responsibility, be analytical and creative and be able to deliver results in time. Ability to report to the founders, hence, need good communication skills and an interest for multidisciplinary research.

Interviews will be conducted with SATT AxLR project manager and project team members