ABOUT US

Our research focuses on extracting and isolating bio-based polymers such as cellulose and proteins fromrenewable feedstocks and waste streams. We aim to develop sustainable processes to convert these materials into high-performance fibers and functional materials. By manipulating molecular interactions through chemical and physical methods, we tailor the structural and mechanical properties of bio-based materials to advance the potential of biopolymers in various applications.
Project description
Cellulose is the most abundant biopolymer on earth and offers significant potential for applications such as sustainable packaging materials and textiles. However, its use in mass production is limited by its inability to melt like conventional thermoplastics. This limitation arises from the strong intermolecular bonding within cellulose: upon heating between 240 °C and 350 °C, cellulose begins to decompose rather than transitioning into a meltable phase. LaserCell funded by ERC StG envisions an innovative approach to reshape and rearrange cellulose at the molecular level by disrupting cohesive interactions through resonant excitation of specific bonds. It will revolutionize the field of biopolymer processing beyond cellulose and yield fundamental insights into supramolecular structure and dynamics in biomaterials.

YOUR PROFILE

We are looking for a candidate with the following qualifications:

• Master’s degree in polymer science, physical chemistry, materials science, or materials engineering, or a closely related field
• Experience with cellulose and its processing technologies is an advantage
• Strong willingness to contribute to the setup and management of laboratory infrastructure
• Fluency in English, particularly in scientific writing and communication, is required; A good working knowledge of German is preferred to facilitate communication with technical staff and administrative services
• Basic knowledge of mechanical engineering or experience with fiber spinning equipment is an advantage
• Practical, hands-on skills and technical competence are highly valued, especially given that the laboratory is in the expansion phase

Please refer the Job description for details