Associate Research Scientist (Internship)

Syensqo is all about chemistry. We’re not just referring to chemical reactions here, but also to the magic that occurs when the brightest minds get to work together. This is where our true strength lies. In you. In your future colleagues and in all your differences. And of course, in your ideas to improve lives while preserving our planet’s beauty for the generations to come.

We are looking for:

Syensqo is looking for an intern to work in our PhyChem Cell department and will investigate the role of novel biopolymers and their assemblies for modifying the rheology of personal care products

We count on you for:

• The candidate will investigate the role of novel biopolymers and their assemblies for modifying the rheology of personal care products that is a critical metric for their performance.
• Rheology modification or control of flow of fluids has a large impact on the sensorial behavior and consumer perception of a range of products in the personal care markets from shampoos, conditioners and bodywashes, to lotions, emollients and delivery of actives/drugs through skin.
• Current technologies used are largely derived from petrochemicals including polymers,
• surfactants and even microplastics. The overall goal of this research at the PhysChem Cell is to explore high performance biosourced and sustainable polymeric alternatives for rheology modification. This will entail fundamental investigations of molecular interactions between these biopolymers, and their formulations with surfactants, oils, additives and their self assemblies.
• Besides Rheology, the candidate will have the opportunity to learn and utilize different physical chemistry techniques and tools; such as optical microscopy, confocal, atomic force microscopy, spectroscopy, zeta potential, light scattering, ellipsometry, quartz microbalance, isothermal titration calorimetry as needed in their evaluation.
• The candidate will learn safety procedures in the Syensqo environment and to develop good safety habits. He/she is also expected to carefully record and summarize generated data for the project.
• The candidate will work under the direct supervision of a senior scientist on the related project.

You can count on us:

• To carry out guided research where observation, independent deduction and directional input will be encouraged.
• To support and train you on the lab work and safety associated with it
• To give you the opportunity to interact with the different research teams in several scientific domains (e.g., microbiology, analytical, process safety,...)
• To develop your scientific, project management skills and knowledge on methodology.

You will bring:

• Candidates pursuing baccalaureate majors in Chemistry, Materials Science & ; Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Nanoscience or interdisciplinary Engineering & ; Scientific programs are welcome. Experiences showing interest in formulation science, surface science, physical chemistry, or colloidal science are a plus.
• We are looking for a talented, creative, observant and intellectually curious student, with good laboratory, analytical and problem solving skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and competency with computers, instrumentation/software are required. Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a project team is essential.

You will get:

• Competitive internship salary
• Industry experience
• Great working environment & collaboration