PhD Position: Next-Generation Biomanufacturing - Development of Yeast-Based Continuous Bioprocess (Upstream/Downstream)

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate for an exciting project focused on the development of yeast-based continuous bioprocesses . This project is part of the Biomanufacturing Research Group at the University of Adelaide , which aims to drive innovation in biomanufacturing by creating more efficient, cost-effective, and scalable production methods.

Project Overview:

As biomanufacturing industries shift from batch processing to continuous, integrated manufacturing , the goal is to reduce costs and enhance product quality. While continuous biomanufacturing has traditionally focused on expensive mammalian cell cultures for antibody production, this project seeks to leverage yeast expression systems —such as Pichia pastoris and Saccharomyces cerevisiae —to create a fully continuous, end-to-end integrated, and automated platform for biopharmaceutical and food production.

The focus of the project will be developed in collaboration with the selected candidate and may include:

• Modeling and optimizing non-affinity continuous periodic counter-current chromatography.
• Developing state-wide process control systems.
• Continuous upstream processing using P. pastoris/S. cerevisiae.
• Continuous buffer exchange processes.

We are seeking creative candidates who are eager to contribute their own ideas to this cutting-edge research.

Supervision:

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Lukas Gerstweiler , head of the Biomanufacturing Research Group at the University of Adelaide. For more details, visit our research page .

Facilities:

Our world-class biomanufacturing facilities include:

• Bioreactors of various scales
• Continuous chromatography systems
• Multiple AKTA systems
• Advanced analytical equipment such as HPLC , DLS , and GC-MS
• These resources provide the perfect environment for conducting innovative research in continuous bioprocessing.

The University of Adelaide is a member of the Group of Eight , known for its research excellence, and is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

Candidate Requirements:

We are looking for candidates with a:

• Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Bioinformatics, Biotechnology , or a related field.
• Research or industry experience in relevant areas will be highly regarded.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for innovative solutions in biomanufacturing.

Application Deadline and Scholarship:

• Application Deadline : December 1st, 2024
• Scholarship : The University of Adelaide offers competitive Research Scholarships of AUD 32,500 p.a. , indexed annually. Candidates must apply to be considered for these scholarships.

How to Apply:

Please send a complete application , including a:

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Transcript of records
• Contact details of two academic references

Submit your application to [email protected] .

Apply now to become part of the next generation of biomanufacturing pioneers and help shape the future of yeast-based continuous bioprocessing!