PhD Position in Valorisation of Seaweed Residues for Food-Grade Aerogels
Join the MSCA Doctoral Network to develop sustainable food-grade aerogels from seaweed residues under EU funding.
Best for:Best for early-stage researchers with a strong background in food science, materials chemistry, or related disciplines, passionate about sustainable innovation and food technology.
Overview
This PhD position is part of the MSCA Doctoral Network Farogels, hosted at the Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA-CSIC) in Spain. The project focuses on transforming seaweed residues into innovative, food-grade aerogels, addressing sustainability challenges in the food industry. The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge research, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and contribute to the development of novel materials with significant environmental and economic benefits. The position is fully funded under the Horizon Europe programme and offers a dynamic environment for early-stage researchers.
What you'll do
- Develop innovative methods for converting seaweed residues into food-grade aerogels with enhanced functional properties.
- Conduct experimental research on aerogel fabrication, characterisation, and application in food systems.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate findings into broader sustainable food technology solutions.
- Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present results at international conferences.
- Contribute to the development of novel food-grade materials that reduce food waste and promote circular economy principles.
- Participate in network-wide activities, workshops, and training programmes within the MSCA Doctoral Network.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree or equivalent in Food Science, Chemistry, Materials Science, Biotechnology, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent proficiency (equivalent to C1 level or higher)
Instruction: English
- Proven research experience in food science, materials chemistry, or related disciplines
- Strong laboratory skills in chemical synthesis and material characterisation techniques
- Familiarity with sustainable materials development and circular economy principles
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment
- Open to EU and non-EU candidates under MSCA eligibility rules (4-year mobility rule applies)
- No upper age limit for MSCA Doctoral Networks
- Candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Spain for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to the recruitment date
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-09 (Europe/Brussels)
Applicants must submit their application through the Farogels MSCA Doctoral Network portal. Required documents include a CV, cover letter, academic transcripts, a research proposal, and two reference letters. The application process involves an initial screening followed by interviews with the selection committee.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Research proposal (2-3 pages)
- Two reference letters
- Proof of English proficiency (if not from an English-speaking country)
Contact
Farogels MSCA Doctoral Network· Administrative Contact
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