Research Engineer in the Evaluation of Bio-based Compounds

This recruitment is part of the SKINOX project, which focuses on lignin derivatives with strong antifungal activity and is funded by the Pre-Maturation Program of the Sorbonne University Alliance’s University Innovation Hub.

Mission

The successful candidate will be responsible for evaluating the biological activities of compounds derived from natural substances synthesized via green chemistry that are suitable for use in cosmetics. This includes characterizing their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential, as well as their safety on reconstructed human skin models. The candidate will participate in the design and execution of experiments within two CNRS units at UTC (BMBI and GEC). Antibacterial testing will be conducted in partnership with the TIMR unit, a co-leader of the project. These three laboratories are equipped with the necessary facilities for the project (L1 and L2 culture rooms, confocal microscope, histology room, microbiology and biochemistry equipment, automated pipetting system, spiral seeder, analytical platform, etc.). All protocols and data must be compiled into a confidential progress report.

Main Activities

Design and conduct experiments to evaluate compounds

Analyze data and format results

Write progress reports

Conduct literature reviews

Scientific background

In response to the growing demand for sustainable and less toxic solutions in the plant protection and cosmetics sectors, we are developing new functionalized compounds. Using a green chemistry approach, we have developed an efficient functionalization process based on the use of more environmentally friendly solvents, shorter reaction times, and low-toxicity reagents. The first compounds obtained in this way exhibit marked antifungal activity against several phytopathogenic fungi, with performance comparable to market benchmarks. At the same time, preliminary tests have shown no cytotoxicity toward human skin cells, suggesting potential for cosmetic applications. Thanks to their renewable origin, their antifungal and potentially antioxidant properties, and their safety for consumers, these compounds appear to be promising alternatives to conventional preservatives and antifungals.

Additional Information

Application dates

From 5 May 2026 to 4 June 2026

Type of contract an expected recruitment dates

Fixed-term contract – expected duration of 13 months – immediate start

Gross Monthly Salary

Depending on experience and funding

Hours

37 hours and 30 minutes/week – 1,607 hours/year

Working environment and context

The position is based within the BMBI UMR CNRS 7338 (Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering), GEC UMR CNRS 7025, and TIMR units. The successful candidate will report to the various project partners.

Qualification

Minimum 5 years of higher education (Bac + 5), Master’s degree, engineering degree; Ph.D. preferred

Field of Study

Biotechnology, cell biology, biochemistry

Skills

Cell biology and cell culture (maintenance of cell lines, viability tests, histology, ELISA testing, etc.)

Microbiology (bacterial culture on reconstructed skin)

Biochemistry

High degree of independence

Rigorous approach and strong management and organizational skills

Interest in interdisciplinary work

Excellent writing skills in French and English

B2 level English (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).