Postdoctoral researcher in food technology

technology, process technology and membrane technology, where the membrane group contributes expertise in the development and optimisation of membrane processes for industrial applications.

Subject description

The position is in food technology with a focus on the development and evaluation of processes for the circular utilisation of by-products from dairy production. The research includes membrane-based separation and concentration processes, including ultrafiltration, nanofiltration and electrodialysis, as well as processing of protein-rich fractions through dairy processes. Particular emphasis is placed on the relationship between process conditions, composition, structure and functionality of milk and whey proteins, and how these affect the quality, texture, stability and nutritional value of fermented dairy products. The work includes process development and characterisation of raw materials and intermediate products, as well as evaluation of functional properties and product quality in food systems.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development.

You will have particular responsibility for experimental work at laboratory and pilot scale in the development and evaluation of dairy and membrane processes. The work will be carried out in close collaboration between academia and industry and includes practical process work, sample handling, analysis and interpretation of results in relation to the project objectives.

Detailed description of the work duties, such as:

• plan, conduct and document laboratory- and pilot-scale experiments in dairy and membrane processes,
• develop and evaluate membrane-based processes and processing strategies for recovery and reuse of components from dairy by-products,
• prepare, process and analyse dairy-based samples and evaluate relevant compositional, physicochemical and functional properties,
• process, analyse and interpret experimental data using appropriate statistical methods,
• contribute to scientific publications, project reports, presentations and other communication of research results,
• participate in project meetings and collaborate with academic and industrial partners,
• collect and transport samples from dairy production facilities when needed for the project experiments,
• contribute to supervision, teaching, applications for external research funding, research development and related administration.

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• You have a very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• You have knowledge of membrane-based separation and concentration processes, e.g. ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, or electrodialysis, as well as their application in the processing industry, such as food-, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries.
• You have practical experience in experimental work involving membrane processes.
• You have experience in independently planning, conducting, and documenting laboratory work within for example food, biotechnology, or process engineering applications.
• You have experience in analysing experimental data and presenting results in scientific contexts.
• You possess strong analytical skills and a structured approach to work.
• You have good collaborative skills and the ability to work in interdisciplinary research environments as well as with external collaborators.

Assessment criteria

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high-quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Other qualifications:

It is considered an advantage if you have

• knowledge and experience in dairy technology, dairy processing, or the structure, functionality, and quality of fermented dairy products,
• knowledge of protein structure, aggregation, and functionality in food systems, particularly milk proteins,
• experience with relevant analytical methods for the characterization of food, protein, or colloidal systems,
• knowledge and experience in statistical experimental design, modelling, programming, or multivariate data analysis,
• experience in process development and pilot-scale trials involving membrane and/or food processing technologies,
• experience of collaboration with industrial partners,
• a Category B driving license.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant's experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Ready to shape the future of research? Learn more about why Lund University might be the right choice for you here, and learn more about working in Sweden here. These films will also give you more information about Working in Lund, Moving to Lund and Living in Lund.

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of two years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement "Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor" ("Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow").

How to apply

Applications are to be written in English and submitted via the University's recruitment system. The application should include a CV with a list of publications, and a personal letter justifying your interest in the position and how it matches your qualifications. The application should also include a degree certificate or equivalent and any other document to which you would like to draw attention (copies of grade transcripts, details of referees, letters of recommendation, etc.)

We welcome your application!

Where to apply

Website: https://lu.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:970019/type:job/where:39/apply:1