Description

Post Doctoral Fellow

KU is seeking a highly motivated Post-doctoral Fellow to work on a funded project focused on harnessing microalgae for sustainable meat analogues. This project aims to explore the biochemical and structural properties of microalgae, optimize microalgae cultivation and processing techniques, and develop innovative approaches to enhance their functionality as alternative protein sources. By integrating advanced bioprocessing technologies and food science principles, the project seeks to improve the texture, nutritional profile, and sensory attributes of sustainable microalgae-based meat analogues. The research will contribute to advancing global food security by promoting sustainable and scalable solutions for alternative proteins and other biomolecules.

As part of the project, the postdoctoral scientist will have access to state-of-the-art research equipment and facilities at FSTC and will get the opportunity to work alongside researchers and graduate students from diverse backgrounds within an interdisciplinary team, gaining valuable experience in cutting-edge Food Safety, Quality Assurance & Processing.

Qualifications

Position Requirements

Key responsibilities include:

• Conduct research on various microalgae species to identify and extract bioactive compounds beneficial for functional beverage development.
• Develop and optimize cultivation through novel bioreactor development, harvesting, and extraction processes to maximize yield and quality of algae/seaweed/probiotic-derived ingredients.
• Promote sustainable and cost-effective systems for food-related products and biomaterials that leverage advanced biotechnological methods on an industrial scale.
• Promote the current UAE resources to develop biomaterials and functional food
• Testing the endotoxin, cytotoxicity of these developed functional biomaterials and foods
• Proficiency in protein characterization methods (e.g., electrophoresis, chromatography, spectroscopy) for assessing functionality and quality of alternative proteins
• Proficiency in cytotoxicity for assessing any toxicity of new bioactive compounds or functional biomaterials
• Proficiency in industrial applications and translation
• Support the research team to assume internationally competitive research and development.
• Adhere to the University's information security and confidentiality policies and procedures, and report breaches or other security risks accordingly
• Perform any other tasks assigned by the Line Manager

Candidate Profile

Essential Criteria

• PhD from a reputable university top 200 QS or THE ranked University in Chemical Engineering, Bioprocessing Engineering, Food Science or related discipline.
• H-Index in SCOPUS/Google Scholar of at least 30
• Expert level knowledge project subject area as evidenced by relevant publications and or patents
• A willingness to contribute to a collaborative and supportive team culture
• Track record of contributing to the writing of successful research grants
• Excellent English language communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• The proven ability to work on multiple tasks with competing demands and deadlines.
• Ability to train and mentor students and support fellow researchers
• Highly developed reasoning and problem-solving skills

Desired Criteria

• PhD from and/or experience working in a top 200 QS or THE ranked University
• At least 2 years of relevant experience as a Post-doctoral researcher in academia or in industry.
• High impact first-author publications in top 10% journals in the relevant field

Should you require further assistance or if you face any issue with the online application, please feel to contact the Recruitment Team (recruitmentteam@ku.ac.ae).