Polymer Biodegradability Apprentice

Overview

LVMH Perfumes & Cosmetics is the fragrance and cosmetics division of LVMH, bringing together leading maisons and centralized R&D capabilities. The employer emphasizes scientific rigour, material innovation and sustainability across product development, offering researchers a multidisciplinary environment with access to advanced analytical resources.

Role & Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough bibliographic research and scientific monitoring of existing standards and protocols for polymer biodegradability (ISO, ASTM and emerging methodologies).
• Design, develop and optimise laboratory test protocols to evaluate the biodegradability of various lipophilic polymers.
• Execute experimental work and characterise materials using analytical techniques such as DSC, TGA, IR spectroscopy and microscopy.
• Ensure rigorous experimental record‑keeping, perform data processing and produce concise technical analyses and synthesis of results.
• Prepare and present regular technical reporting and progress updates to the R&D team during structured meetings.
• Adhere to laboratory safety procedures and contribute to the continuous improvement of test methods and workflows.

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a Master (M2) programme or engineering school in materials science, polymer chemistry, process engineering, environmental science or equivalent.
• Solid foundational knowledge of polymer chemistry and an interest in material sustainability and environmental issues.
• Familiarity with biodegradation mechanisms and analytical characterization techniques is highly desirable.
• Comfortable working independently in a laboratory setting with meticulous attention to experimental detail.
• Proficiency with office tools for documentation and data presentation (Pack Office).
• Good scientific English sufficient to read and interpret peer‑reviewed articles.

Skills

Experience

Entry‑level (suitable for students in M2 or engineering programmes); prior laboratory experience or internships in polymer/materials testing preferred but not mandatory.

Education

Master's level (M2) or engineering school enrolment in materials science, polymer chemistry, process engineering, environmental sciences or equivalent.

Culture

The research organisation within LVMH fosters cross‑disciplinary collaboration between formulation scientists, materials experts and industrialisation teams. The working environment prizes scientific excellence, responsible innovation and practical application of sustainable solutions.