Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) — Solid-State Science & Crystallization

Zero Gravity Works manufactures small-molecule pharmaceutical crystals in orbit. We use microgravity to grow crystalline forms more uniform and stable than Earth can reliably make. We are the only Italian operator in this emerging field, backed by ESA BIC and an advisory network across eight universities. This is the chance to do for Europe what Varda Space has done in the US — and to build a new manufacturing industry from the ground up.

What you'll own

- Solid-state and crystallization science: polymorphism, crystal forms, salts, co-crystals, hydrates/solvates
- Assessing molecules for microgravity suitability and defining mission outcomes
- Designing crystallization processes (solution, antisolvent, cooling, vapour-diffusion)
- Characterization strategy: XRPD, DSC, TGA, single-crystal analysis
- Acting as scientific voice with pharmaceutical partners and investors
- Building and leading the scientific function as we grow

What you bring (essential)





- Hands-on industrial experience in pharmaceutical solid-state science and crystallization
- Practical mastery of XRPD, DSC, TGA
- Degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related
- The mindset of a builder — equally comfortable as scientific lead and as the person at the bench
- Fluent English

This is a solid-state / crystallization role — not a synthetic chemistry, QC or formulation position.

Nice to have: PhD or equivalent industrial depth; PAT and QbD/DoE; particle engineering; curiosity for microgravity science; Milan-based or willing to relocate.

What we offer: €80,000 gross/year, one-year renewable + a meaningful founding-team equity plan; on-site Milan lab you help design; access to our university advisory network and space-industry partners.

To apply: send your CV and a short motivation (plus any publications or crystallization work samples) via the link, or to [email protected].

📌 Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) — Solid-State Science & Crystallization (Milano)
🏢 Zero Gravity Works
📍 Milano