Postdoctoral Researcher

About this position

Prof. Alice Mija, Institute of Chemistry of Nice -University Côte d'Azur, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our research team working on the development of advanced polymer-based materials and composite systems for space applications .

The successful candidate will contribute to research focused on the design, synthesis, processing, characterization and performance assessment of innovative biobased and recyclable polymeric and composite materials capable of meeting the demanding environmental requirements of space missions.

The research will address the relationship between material composition, processing, microstructure and performance , with particular emphasis on durability and reliability under extreme space environments.

Research objectives

The project will investigate the development of high-performance biobased and recyclable polymer and composite materials for applications such as spacecraft structures, insulation, lightweight components, and other space-related systems.

The research includes:

• Synthesis, development and optimization of advanced biobased polymer matrices and polymer blends.
• Formulation and processing of high-performance thermoset systems.
• Development of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composites and multifunctional composite materials.
• Incorporation of fillers, fibres, nanoparticles or other functional phases to tailor material properties.
• Investigation of polymer–filler and polymer–fibre interfaces.
• Manufacturing and processing of composite materials using appropriate techniques.
• Mechanical, thermal, thermo-mechanical and physicochemical characterization.
• Investigation of ageing and degradation mechanisms under simulated space environments.
• Assessment of material behaviour under thermal cycling, vacuum, radiation and other relevant environmental conditions.
• Correlation of material structure and properties with processing parameters and environmental exposure.
• Development of materials with improved lightweighting, thermal stability, mechanical performance and long-term durability.
• Contribution to the design and validation of materials for future space technologies.