Job Wageningen UR (University & Research centre) - PhD “Characterisation and functional properties of protein fractions from insects

PhD position “Characterisation and functional properties of protein fractions from insects and ways to tailor them”

Within the programme “Sustainable production of insect proteins for human consumption” financed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, the following PhD position is vacant. The PhD student will work closely together with another collaborating partner in the programme, Wageningen UR Food & Biobased Research, on the topic of separation and purification of proteins from insects. The student will also collaborate with another PhD student at the Laboratory of Entomology (WU) dealing with “Production of edible insects from side streams”.
Tasks: The PhD student will conduct the following tasks:
- Classify proteins from several insects according to their potential use in foods with respect to nutritional value, digestibility, and functional properties.
- Characterize protein fractions isolated from one or more insect species on for example molecular weight, charge density, and amino acid composition using a variety of biochemical techniques.
- Map functional properties of the isolated protein fractions such as solubility, thermal stability, gelation, fibre forming and emulsifying capacity.
- Study sensory properties of the isolated protein fractions.
- Investigate microbiological safety of and the presence of chemical contaminants in the isolated protein fractions.

Completed MSc in Food Technology or Biochemistry, or a comparable degree and discipline with demonstrable interest in multidisciplinary research. Experienced in purification and characterization of proteins. Excellent communication skills. For candidates from a non-English speaking country a TOEFL or equivalent test result should demonstrate a high quality command over the English language.

Full time appointment for a period of 12 months (go-no go moment) with possibilities of extension up till a total duration of 4 years. Gross salary € 2042, - per month in the first year, rising to € 2612, - per month in the 4th year. Information: Information on the content of the position:Prof.dr.ir. M.A.J.S. van Boekel, telephone number +31 317 482520 or Dr.ir. C.M.M. Lakemond, telephone number +31 317 482401Information on the selection procedure: Mrs. D. Wissink, telephone number +31 317 485854 or Mr. R.H.J. van Meegen, telephone number +31 317 485466Application: You can apply online for this job until April 1st at http://www.wur.nl/UK/work

Wageningen University and Research CentreDelivering a substantial contribution to the quality of life. That's our focus – each and every day. Within our domain, healthy food and living environment, we search for answers to issues affecting society – such as sustainable food production, climate change and alternative energy. Of course, we don’t do this alone. Every day, 6,500 people work on ‘the quality of life’, turning ideas into reality, on a global scale. Could you be one of these people? We give you the space you need.For further information about working at Wageningen UR, take a look at www.jobsat.wur.nl.

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