PhD position: Understanding micro-structure of plant protein-based gels

Are you a talented aspiring researcher interested in integrating physics with food technology? Would you like to contribute to the sustainable protein transition while working with state-of-the-art techniques? We are looking for a PhD candidate who is keen to explore the intricate dynamics of microstructure formation in plant protein gels, and to use this understanding to design microstructural characteristics that bare relevance to sensory perception.

What will you do?
This research aims to elucidate the relationship between ingredient composition and the resulting microstructure, providing insights that are essential for optimizing the texture and functionality of plant-based foods. As a PhD candidate, you will work on cutting-edge research to uncover how the distribution of components affects the microstructure of plant protein gels. You will investigate experimentally the formation dynamics and mechanisms of the mesostructure, and compare this to existing conceptual theory.

This study is part of a larger project which aims to identify which characteristics – from the molecular scale through to the mesostructure – affect sensory-relevant properties. You will collaborate with other project members to complete the chain from molecule to sensory experience. Together, you will help in formulating practically relevant ingredient-microstructure-function relations, which are crucial to meet the growing demand for sustainable and nutritious food options.

You will work here
The research is embedded within the chair Physics and Physical Chemistry of Foods which is led by Prof. Erik van der Linden . You will be co-supervised by Dr. Leonard Sagis, Dr. Paul Venema and Dr. Jasper Landman.

Requirements:

For this project, we are looking for a highly motivated and skilled PhD candidate with a recent university MSc degree (or equivalent) in food technology, soft matter physics, and/or physical chemistry. Specific requirements are:

• a proven track record of performing experiments in the field of food technology;
• conceptual knowledge of existing theories in the field of food technology, macromolecules, colloid chemistry and/or thermodynamics;
• strong analytical skills and conceptual, multiscale thinking;
• taking initiatives and being result-oriented;
• good programming and image analysis skills (e.g., Python) preferred;
• a team player with excellent communication skills.

For this position your command of the English language is expected to be at C1 level. Sometimes it is necessary to submit an internationally recognised Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language. More information can be found here.

Salary Benefits:

Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include:

• partially paid parental leave;
• working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance;
• there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee;
• a fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• excellent pension scheme.

In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will receive a fully funded PhD position and you will be offered a course program tailored to your needs and the research team.

The gross salary for the first year is € 2.901,- per month rising to € 3.707,- in the fourth year in according to the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU) (scale P). This is based on a full-time working week of 38 hours. We offer a temporary contract for 18 months which will be extended for the duration of the project if you perform well.

Wageningen University & Research offers plenty of opportunities for growth and development, with a strong internal recruitment policy and excellent training programmes.

You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment. For 20 consecutive years, we have been voted the "best university" in the Netherlands! A place to be proud of.

Coming from abroad
Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large international community and a lot to offer to international employees.

Because we expect you to work and live in the Netherlands our team of advisors on Dutch immigration procedures will help you with the visa application procedures for yourself and, if applicable, for your family.

Feeling welcome also has everything to do with being well informed. We can assist you with any additional advice and information about for example helping your partner to find a job, housing, or schooling. Finally, certain categories of international staff may be eligible for a tax exemption on a part of their salary during the first five years in the Netherlands.

38 hours per week

Droevendaalsesteeg