Polysaccharide-based microgels by reactive extrusion: Synthesis, structure, and properties
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In cosmetic formulations, the use of bio-based and biodegradable components has become a major challenge, with ambitious goals such as 98% biodegradability set by industry players. However, natural polymers currently present limitations in terms of molar mass and macromolecular architecture, requiring high mass fractions to achieve texturizing properties comparable to fossil-based microgels such as Carbomers. Polysaccharide-based microgels, while promising due to their biodegradability and rheological properties, are currently produced through multi-step and complex processes, which is unsuitable for large-scale production.
In this context, this thesis project aims to explore several macromolecular engineering strategies to develop bio-based and biodegradable microgels using an innovative process, reactive extrusion, and to characterize their rheological and structural properties. To increase the molar mass by branching polysaccharides (alginate, chitosan, hyaluronic acid), a straightforward, efficient, and byproduct-free chemistry will be implemented, coupled with controlled flows. Specifically, two complementary strategies, called “Bottom-up” and “Top-down”, will address several fundamental questions. This experimental work will focus on understanding the effect of these strategies on the structure, rheological properties, biodegradability of the microgels, and the underlying physics. In fine, these results will open new perspectives for producing polysaccharide-based microgels via a robust and sustainable process.
This project will be integrated within the laboratory IMP (Université Jean Monnet). The IMP team is renowned for his research activities in polymer science, with important facilities. Its main research aim is to establish and to control relationships between chemistry, structure, rheology, and processing.
Candidate profile
Highly motivated students with a Master/Ingénieur degree, or equivalent, in the field of polymer or colloids science (physical-chemistry) are encouraged to apply. A prior knowledge on polysaccharides, rheology or extrusion will be also appreciated. Excellent writing and oral communication skills.
Application
Send to the contact below your CV, cover letter, references, grades, and qualification (achieved and/or expected), before the 10th of March 2026
Durée : 36-months contract, from September-October 2026
Localisation : France, Saint-Etienne, with regular travel to Lyon
Salary: ~1700 €/month