Bio‑Materials Chemist & Formulation Specialist (Natural Binders & Bio‑Composites)

About the role

POSIDONIA is developing non‑toxic, circular insulation panels from beach‑cast Posidonia oceanica fibers. We are looking for a chemist or bio‑materials formulation specialist to create an organic, non‑toxic binding paste that unites the fibers into stable panels.

Key responsibilities

• Formulate, mix and test eco‑friendly bio‑based pastes using plant starches, alginates, lignin derivatives, chitosan, natural silicates, clay or lime systems.
• Optimize binder viscosity, wet adhesion and drying kinetics to ensure even coating without clogging fiber air pockets.
• Achieve target compression strength, flexural rigidity and dimensional stability while preserving vapor permeability, thermal performance and fire‑retardant properties.
• Guarantee a 100 % non‑toxic, VOC‑free formulation, integrating natural anti‑fungal and moisture‑regulating additives.
• Define low‑energy curing temperature, pressing pressure and moisture‑evaporation timelines for bench‑scale prototypes and future pilot production.

Required profile

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Bio‑Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Applied Materials Science or Green Chemistry.
• Direct experience with bio‑adhesives, green binders or natural polymer matrix formulations for fiber‑based composites.
• Knowledge of fiber‑matrix interfacial bonding, natural fiber surface chemistry and organic paste curing mechanisms.

Required skills

• Rheology and viscosity control.
• Mechanical testing (tensile, compression) and thermal conductivity analysis.
• Formulation of bio‑adhesives and green binders.
• Optimization of curing processes and low‑energy drying.