PhD Scholarship: Characterization and Extraction of Protein from Agro-industrial Sources for Fish Feed

The focus of the PhD is the characterization, extraction and potential modification or optimization of protein from by-products from the brewing and distilling of beer and alcohol in the Nordic countries. Such biological material represents a low value in the unrefined form, among other reasons due to a high content of complex carbohydrates and water. The aim of the project is to characterize the composition of potential raw materials from which protein can be recovered and used in extruded aquaculture feeds. The effects of using different extraction methods on the quality of protein are to be assessed, as well as the potential selective improvement in protein content or amino acid composition. Ultimately, these efforts shall lead to several treated protein sources used in the formulation of aquaculture feeds, and subjected to biological trials.

The scholarship is financed by the Nordic Center of Excellence project SUREAQUA funded by NordForsk under the Nordic Council of Ministers, with support from the Ph.D. school at DTU Aqua. The Ph.D. is a part of the SUREAQUA Nordic Centre of Excellence (www.sureaqua.no). The overarching aim of SUREAQUA is to promote the circular bioeconomy in aquatic production, through the use of innovative technology and bio-refinery solutions, in order to boost aquatic production, profitability, and job creation in the Nordic countries.

The position is based at the Section for Aquaculture, DTU Aqua in Hirtshals, but part of the work will be conducted in collaboration with project partners in other Nordic countries, as well as other DTU institutes in the Copenhagen area. DTU prioritizes international collaboration as part of the Ph.D., and the candidate should expect to spend a period of exchange in other Nordic countries. The supervisors will be Associate Professor Peter V. Skov and Senior Scientist Ivar Lund.

Qualifications
We are looking for a candidate with a Master’s degree (M.Sc., M.Eng., or equivalent) in the field of food chemistry, bio-engineering, biotechnology or animal nutrition. A strong interest in the field of protein extraction, recovery, and characterization is essential. Ideally, you have a good understanding of nutritional biochemistry and digestive physiology. Previous experience in the design and execution of experiments is desirable. You must have a strong proficiency in written and spoken English, a drive to disseminate your work, and the ability to work independently, and identify and pursue relevant questions that arise.

Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see the DTU PhD Guide.

Senior Scientist Ivar Lund, and Associate Professor Peter V. Skov, DTU Aqua will assess the applicants.

Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students at DTU.

The period of employment is 3 years.

Further information
For further information about the project, please contact Associate Professor Peter V. Skov, pvsk@aqua.dtu.dk

General information may be obtained from Rikke Hansen rikh@aqua.dtu.dk (+45) 3588 3001

Please do not send applications by e-mail, instead apply online as described below.

Application
Please submit your online application no later than 31 March 2019.

To apply, please open the link "Apply online", fill out the online application form. The following must be attached in English:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
• Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and Excel spreadsheet here)
• Description of skills according to qualifications.
• Brief research proposal (1-2 pages) presenting ideas on how to address the research topics given in the short description of the PhD project above

Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it. Applications that do not contain all the required materials may not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

The purpose of DTU Aqua is to provide research, advice and education at the highest international level within the sustainable exploitation of living marine and freshwater resources, the biology of aquatic organisms and the dynamics of ecosystems as well as their integration in ecosystem-based management. DTU Aqua has 290 employees, of whom 120 are scientific staff. The other employees are assistant biologists, laboratory technicians, IT employees, administrative staff, ship’s crew, student assistants etc. The institute is organized into eight scientific sections which carry out the research, educational and advisory activities. In addition, the institute has a number of scientific and administrative support functions, including the research vessel DANA. DTU Aqua has employees in Lyngby, Silkeborg, Nykøbing Mors and Hirtshals as well as on Dana. You can read more about DTU Aqua on www.aqua.dtu.dk

DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and scientific advice. Our staff of 6,000 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society, and our 11,200 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government and public agencies.