Post-doctoral position – Development of high value-added hemp textile fibers: impact of retting and functionalizations

This post-doctoral position at IMT Mines Alès focuses on the development of high value-added hemp textile fibers, specifically investigating the impact of retting and functionalizations. The role is based within the Materials Research Center (C2MA) and the PCH Research Unit, which are renowned for their work in eco-materials derived from renewable resources and recycled materials. The research is part of the ANR TAFFTA project, aiming to optimize hemp fiber processing for textile applications in southern France, from field cultivation to spinning, with a special emphasis on the crucial stages of retting and fiber extraction. The successful candidate will conduct research on two main processing stages. The first involves studying the physicochemical and mechanical properties of hemp fibers during retting, including the evolution of cell walls and biochemical composition, as well as tensile strength, with consideration of different harvest locations. The second stage focuses on developing surface treatments for hemp rovings produced by spinning, targeting functionalities such as hydrophobicity, fire resistance, and antibacterial resistance. These treatments may be applied chemically or physically (e.g., plasma treatment) at both the roving and fabric levels. IMT Mines Alès is a leading engineering school in France, with a strong commitment to sustainable development, diversity, and innovation. The institution offers a dynamic research environment, state-of-the-art equipment, and extensive collaboration with industry partners. The Materials Research Center (C2MA) and PCH Research Unit are organized around key areas including biomass and bio-based materials, surface and interface engineering, durability and recycling of polymers and composites, and fire behavior and thermal degradation of polymers. The position is a full-time, 11-month fixed-term contract funded by the ANR TAFFTA project. Applicants must hold a PhD in materials science with a focus on textiles and have significant experience in fiber characterization and processing. The role requires autonomy, teamwork, organizational skills, and the ability to produce scientific deliverables and collaborate with project partners. Upon arrival, the candidate will benefit from a structured onboarding process to facilitate integration into the research team and institution. Applications should be submitted online via the provided link. For scientific inquiries, contact Professor Anne Bergeret, and for administrative questions, reach out to Géraldine Brunel, Director of Human Resources. The deadline for applications is March 26, 2026. IMT Mines Alès encourages responsible, innovative, and ethical practices in all activities, offering a supportive environment for professional growth and impactful research.