CIRAD is recruiting a wood science and technology engineer.
CIRAD (Centre for International Agricultural Research and Development) produces and disseminates new knowledge to support innovation and agricultural development in developing countries, working with its partners.
Its primary objective is to build sustainable agriculture in tropical and Mediterranean regions that is adapted to climate change and capable of feeding 10 billion people by 2050, while preserving the environment.
The research conducted by the “Biomass, Wood, Energy, Bioproducts” (BioWooEB) unit focuses on understanding tropical woody biomass and characterizing it for use as materials, energy, or bioproducts. These activities are part of a circular economy approach through the sustainable use of locally processed resources to meet the needs of developing regions in the Mediterranean and tropical areas.
Based at CIRAD-Montpellier for 1 to 2 years and then expatriated to Gabon for 3 years (possibly renewable), you will strengthen the BioWooEB unit's expertise in the field of wood and wood-based product valorization, within the framework of sustainable and responsible tropical forest management. Better utilization of little-known and little-used species, particularly in Central Africa, will enable better use of wood without impacting species already in use and natural areas. For producing countries, the objective is twofold: (a) to optimize the management of concessions currently being exploited within the framework of sustainable forest management; (b) to limit pressure on species that are already economically valuable.
Your activities will focus on the development of wood products and wood processing technologies for a wide range of species. These activities will be carried out in close partnership with companies in the wood processing sector.
Your tasks will consist of conducting research and development activities to promote little-known or underutilized species by developing new engineered products (e.g., glued solid wood, heat-treated wood) suited to the tropical environment and the Congo Basin. You will participate in BioWooEB's finalised research projects in Central Africa and in technical expertise activities with other researchers in the unit.
For more information and to apply
Closing date: June 10th, 2025
