PhD Stipend in Predictive Protein Extractability

Do you want to be part of a young dynamic research group working on developing tools and methods for facilitating green transition in the production of food protein ingredients And do you see yourself at the interface between protein science food science analytical chemistry and data science and If yes we look forward to reading your application to our PhD Stipend.
At the Faculty of Engineering and Science Department of Chemistry and Bioscience a PhD stipend is available within the general study program. The PhD stipend is open for appointment from August 1st 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is for 3 years and the workplace is in Aalborg.

Your work tasks
Exploring new biomasses as sources of proteins for potential food ingredients is a field in rapid evolution. And while the protein composition in the biomasses reflects natural variability the nutritional value and functionality of the protein also depend on extrinsic factors. One of the central factors is the way in which the proteins are extracted. With the emergence of a plethora of new and green methods for protein extraction limited knowledge exists on how the choice of method affects the extracted protein besides the direct effect on bulk functionality.
In this PhD project we dig deeper to obtain a better molecular understanding of the effects from different extraction methods. To accommodate this we will explore protein extracts from a wide range of emerging biomasses (plant fungal insect etc.) obtained using a variety of conventional and emerging extraction methods with varying process parameters.
Through extensive characterization of the molecular/protein-level composition (by e.g. quantitative proteomics with LC/MS/MS) process outcomes (yield purity etc.) and in vitro bulk functionality (e.g. emulsifying foaming gelling and antioxidant properties) the aim is to link biomass and process with composition and functionality. To accomplish this the project will explore different approaches for data and correlation analysis utilizing methods rooted in artificial intelligence (i.e. machine learning and deep learning). The analysis will be the basis for developing a predictive model to help select the most optimal method and parameters for obtaining a protein with optimized functionality. To improve our understanding of why the model will embrace the principles of explainable AI.
The PhD stipend is secured via internal funding at AAU and is therefore flexible within the overall framework of the proposal. As such the PhD students will actively take part in shaping the final scope and direction of the work. This allows the PhD student to develop competencies within conceptualization and ideation and to some extent shape the content and scope of their PhD.
The PhD student will be part of the Food Protein Analytics & Informatics group led by Associate Professor Simon Gregersen Echers within the Section of Bioresources and Process Engineering which offers state-of-the-art experimental and computational infrastructure and facilitates a dynamic work environment and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Your competencies
The applicant should hold a masters degree in biotechnology protein science food science process engineering data science/bioinformatics or a closely related field. Previous experience working in interdisciplinary research across fields will be considered advantageous.
The applicant must display strong competencies in analytical chemistry and have demonstrated experience with and a theoretical understanding of mass spectrometry-based analysis of biomolecules. Practical experience in quantitative bottom-up proteomics by LC-MS/MS will be considered advantageous.
The applicant must have experience with processing biomass (e.g. protein extraction) and knowledge of and experience with different processing technologies will be considered advantageous. Experience with in vitro characterization of different bulk functionalities in a food ingredient context will be considered advantageous.
The applicant should have proficiency in scientific programming (e.g. in python) and must demonstrate the ability to handle large amounts of data confidently and systematically. Previous experience with machine/deep learning will be considered advantageous.
The applicant is required to demonstrate excellent oral and written English language skills. The applicant is expected to demonstrate strong collaborative skills team spirit and the ability to also work independently. The applicant must be interested in working in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Qualification requirements
PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Masters degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1124 of September 19 2025 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time. As part of the PhD study you are among other things required to complete PhD courses corresponding to 30 ECTS gain experience with teaching or other forms of knowledge dissemination and complete an external research stay outside of Aalborg University preferably 3-6 months at a foreign research institution.

Who we are
At the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience (BIO) our high-level research spans from basic to applied within both natural sciences and engineering. With approx. 150 employees 75 PhD students and 775 bachelor and masters students at our campuses in Aalborg (main campus) and Esbjerg we are a vital research and educational institution when it comes to creating new basic knowledge as well as contributing to solving the worlds challenges within biology chemistry biotechnology bioengineering environmental science and chemical engineering.

We continuously improve our department as an attractive place of work and study. We offer flexible hours social activities throughout the year both at the department level and in each Section. We are inclusive and have respect for individuals communities and cultures. Our work culture is founded on openness curiosity transparency and involvement. Come join us!
Read more about the department here; Welcome to the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience - - Aalborg University

How to apply
Your application must include the following:

• Application stating reasons for applying and qualifications in relation to the position
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Diplomas (bachelors and masters degree diploma including grades)
• If you currently completing your . thesis please include a transcript of your completed . activities and a statement from your supervisor stating that you are expected to complete your . prior to the starting date of the Ph.D. position.
• Other relevant documents

The application must be submitted via Aalborg Universitys recruitment system which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aalborg Universitys website.

Aalborg University wants to reflect the surrounding society and has diversity as a core value. Therefore everyone regardless of personal background and orientation is encouraged to apply for the position.

Do you have any questions
If you have any questions about the position you are more than welcome to contact us. You will find contact persons at the bottom of the jobpost.

Further information
Read more about our recruitment process here.

The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts.
Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline the head of the department with the assistance of the hiring committee will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires ensuring the safety compliance and integrity of the workplace.

Read more about The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science

Salary and terms of employment
The employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities (the Appointment Order) and the Ministerial Order on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities (in Danish).

Salary and terms of employment are in accordance with the collective agreement between the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations and the state (AC collective agreement) (in Danish)

Aalborg University - Knowledge for the world
Aalborg University is an international workplace with more than 3700 employees. We offer real-world-oriented education and create world-class research results through collaboration between researchers students and public and private companies. This is how we achieve insights new solutions to societal problems and knowledge that changes the world. Our main campus is in Aalborg but we also have campuses in Esbjerg and Copenhagen.