Doctoral Researcher – Microalgae: a resilient and dense source of Micronutrients

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Doctoral Researcher – Microalgae: a resilient and dense source of

Micronutrients

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

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The Sustainable Food Processing group focuses on a system-oriented approach to food production via the consideration of the total value chain including emerging needs in society and their environmental, economic, and social impact. Microalgae are considered one of the most promising resilient food sources. Innovative upstream cultivation techniques combined with new processing concepts are enabling microalgae to provide a sustainable food supply. We are starting the recruitment for a Doctoral Researcher in microalgae cultivation at the beginning of September 2023.

Project background

Microalgae are unicellular microorganisms that are getting increasing attention as one of the more sustainable novel foods globally. Microalgae can reach higher areal productivity than terrestrial plants, do not require arable land or fresh water, and can use fertilizers with almost 100% efficiency. Microalgae can provide a significant number of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids and amino acids, to support human health. In the last decades, microalgae have been the focus of extensive research as a novel source of proteins and lipids, while vitamins and minerals (micronutrients) received less attention.

Microalgae however are considered the most resilient micronutrient-dense food source. For instance, some microalgae can contain 100 times more iron compared to beef and 500 times more vitamin D than cow milk. Given their extremely high nutritional value, daily consumption of 2-10 g of microalgae could provide most of the micronutrients needed in a healthy diet. Micronutrient deficiencies cause morbidity and mortality affecting human potential worldwide. Currently, the main sources of bioavailable micronutrients are vegetables, fruits, and animal-based products. Climate change is expected to strongly impact the productivity of these agricultural products. Vulnerabilities of our food systems together with demands of the growing human population (projected 10 billion by 2050) are expected to increase the price of these nutrient-dense foods, thus limiting their access, and therefore aggravating the micronutrient deficiency-related issues.

In this project, we will investigate various cultivation conditions to maximize micronutrient contents. Several approaches and factors will be investigated such as abiotic stresses and targeted nutrient starvations. Once the best culturing conditions are found, biomass will be produced using a newly designed low-cost photobioreactor. The produced biomass will be used for in vitro and in vivo studies in collaboration with the Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Epigenetics.

Job description

You will be responsible for the research aimed at the production of micronutrient-enriched microalgal biomass. You will design your bioprocess and operate state of art lab-scale photobioreactors as well as our newly designed pilot-scale photobioreactor.

Your tasks will include:

Summarizing the existing knowledge on micronutrients from microalgae and other novel foods for human nutrition and health

Explore and design bioprocesses to produce micronutrient-enriched microalgal biomass

Characterize and analyze micronutrient compositions of different microalgal biomasses

Operate lab-scale and pilot-scale photobioreactors

Mastering techniques for cell disruption to increase nutrient bioavailability (e.g., high-pressure homogenizer, ms PEF)

Support teaching activities and co-supervise MSc and BSc students

Present your findings at academic conferences and to industrial partners

Support grant applications for the team and support related activities from Singapore-ETH Centre, ETH World Food System Center WFSC, and ETH for Development ETH4D competence center

Your profile

A MSc (or equivalent) in Bioprocess Engineering, Biotechnology, Cell or Molecular Biology, Food Science and Technology (or similar)

A strong passion for novel food sources and sustainable food production

Expertise and interest in single-cell technology for food production (priority given to experience in working with microalgae)

Interest in working in an international, interdisciplinary, and dynamic team

Ability to collaborate with different teams and national and international partners

Ability to work independently and supervise students

Strong verbal and written communication skills in English

Scientific curiosity and motivation to perform scientifically rigorous experimental work

Your workplace Your workplace We offer

State-of-the-art research equipment in an excellent, open working environment, continuous training, and learning opportunities for hard- and transferable skills. Additionally, we offer perspectives for career development in academia, entrepreneurship, and industry. A strong team culture, a culturally diverse team, and a flexible working environment with home-office options.

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We value diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

Cover letter including a short statement of experience and qualifications

A two-page research proposal outlining the current issues, important literature, and possible approaches to increase micronutrient content of microalgal biomass

A comprehensive CV with a maximum of three pages

Diplomas/transcripts,

Contact information for two academic references

If you did not study in an English-speaking country or if your MSc program was not in English, please include your English certificate

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. The position is going to be open until a suitable candidate is found. Start date by mutual agreement with the latest start date on January 1st, 2024.

Further information about the ETH Sustainable Food Processing group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Fabian Abiusi ([email protected]) (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

Cover letter including a short statement of experience and qualifications

A two-page research proposal outlining the current issues, important literature, and possible approaches to increase micronutrient content of microalgal biomass

A comprehensive CV with a maximum of three pages

Diplomas/transcripts,

Contact information for two academic references

If you did not study in an English-speaking country or if your MSc program was not in English, please include your English certificate

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. The position is going to be open until a suitable candidate is found. Start date by mutual agreement with the latest start date on January 1st, 2024.

Further information about the ETH Sustainable Food Processing group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Fabian Abiusi ([email protected]) (no applications).

Apply online now

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

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