Applications Development Lead - Biobased Polymers (PLGA/CO2)

Avantium; Amsterdam; Hybrid; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Avantium seeks an Application Development Manager to lead the development of Volta products, focusing on PLGA for packaging. You will coordinate with customers, R&D labs, and partners to advance development, scale-up and commercialization.

You will report to the Chief Product Officer and build a strong technical-business case across markets, with travel up to 30–50%. Expect a dynamic, knowledge-rich environment with opportunities to shape new sustainable solutions.

Qualifications

• Degree in chemistry, polymer, engineering or related applied sciences.
• At least 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Experience in application development or technical sales in polymer packaging or related fields.
• Biobased polymers experience is highly preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication across stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel 30–50%.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with customers and internal and external R&D laboratories.
• Maintain and grow a network of partner labs and manage outsourced projects.
• Serve as technical interface between customer and Business Development during sample validation and trials.
• Develop application development reports/brochures with scientific clarity.
• Maintain knowledge of PLGA technical practices and business implications.
• Initiate product development projects with external partners based on customer needs.
• Ensure technical product compliance and registrations with regulatory and BD support.
• Support grant applications and execution of awarded projects.
• Represent Avantium at conferences and scout partnership opportunities.

Skills

Application development

Technical sales

Clear communication

Stakeholder management

Willing to travel

Education

Bachelors/Masters/PhD in chemistry/polymer/engineering

Job description

Avantium seeks an Application Development Manager to lead the development of Volta products, focusing on PLGA for packaging. You will coordinate with customers, R&D labs, and partners to advance development, scale-up and commercialization.

You will report to the Chief Product Officer and build a strong technical-business case across markets, with travel up to 30–50%. Expect a dynamic, knowledge-rich environment with opportunities to shape new sustainable solutions.