Sustain-Sense: Sensory and microbiological synergies in biopreservation of fermented and non-fermented foods for sustainable food production with societal and consumer adoption.
Research area and project description:
The global food chain and ultimately the global population urgently need secure, healthy, sustainable food solutions. Different approaches are suggested, and at the consumer level specifically, these solutions include a shift to a more plant-based diet.
Fermented foods and biopreservation of non-fermented foods also provide an attractive means towards obtaining more sustainable food production. This is due to the antagonistic activities of beneficial microbial cultures, typically lactic acid bacteria, towards pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms thereby increasing food safety and the durability of quality parameters. As a result, the improved keeping quality will result in a reduced amount of food waste. However, we need the consumer on board for all such innovation to be successful in the green transition.
The current PhD project will explore utilizing the synergistic effects of a concerted focus on strengthening the application of lactic acid bacteria for novel types of fermentation and biopreservation of selected foods.
Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants to the PhD position must:
- have a relevant Master’s degree in food science, sensory science, consumer science, microbiology and shelf life or equivalent
- have competencies in sensory and consumer analyses, food science, food and health research, cross-cultural research, shelf life designation and knowledge about food perception in cross diciplinary contexts would be an advantage
- demonstrate evidence of creativity, independent learning, and a willingness to embrace an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Agrofood park 48, 8200 Aarhus N
Please be aware, that the PhD project involves funding from Sino Danish Center/SDC, and it is therefore required that:
- the PhD student must spend time in a Chinese research environment (min. 12 month).
- PhD students funded by the Danish SDC office are expected to contribute to the educational activities on the SDC Master’s programmes in Beijing during their stay in China.
See the SDC’s website on the specific requirements: https://sdc.university/research/phd/. Please note that it is not possible to get exemption from these conditions.