Civil, Maritime & Environmental Engineering

Location: Southampton Science Park, Chilworth
Salary: £34,980 to £39,347 Per annum
Full Time Fixed Term for 6 months
Closing Date: Thursday 15 August 2024
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: 2799024DA

Research Associate in fermentation and biofilm development

Job Summary

A Post Doctoral Research Associate in fermentation and biofilm is sought to work on the development of biofilm for acid fermentation using waste hydrolysate. The post is funded by the BBNet as part of a PoC project on biomass waste to chemicals with CO₂ fixation, aiming for negative carbon emissions in biorefinery. The main focus will be utilising the natural flocculation capability of a specific pure strain to form biofilm for platform acid fermentation, enabling sugar-rich hydrolysate-based fermentation possible for acid production and carbon fixation. The project will involve biofilm assays, fermentation, and inventory establishment for preliminary life cycle assessment. Developing bio-based platform chemicals from waste to replace or complement petroleum-derived chemicals is critical to moving towards a circular economy. The utilisation of CO₂ as a co-substrate in this project will further support the transition to net zero.

Essential requirements

PhD in Bioengineering, (Bio)chemical Engineering, Biotechnology or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience

Expertise and experience in fermentation using monoculture (using anaerobic or facultative monoculture preferred)

Capability of working under your own initiative while collaborating with the project members

The following knowledge, skills & experience is desirable:

Detailed understanding and knowledge of industrial fermentation 

Detailed understanding and knowledge of biomass hydrolysis  

Practical experience with fermentation in bioreactors

Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Technician will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Further Information

The post is a fixed-term contract for 6 months from November 2024 to April 2025. However, other opportunities may be available from May 2025 to April 2027, for a biofilm-based biodegradation project as part of an Engineering Biology Mission Hub. 

Full details of the role and the skills, knowledge and experience required can be found in the Job Description document, via the above ‘Apply’ button.

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Yongqiang Liu – Y.Liu@soton.ac.uk