Postdoctoral Position in Food Technology and Plant Protein Functionality

Lund University’s Department of Process and Life Science Engineering is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in food technology, focusing on plant proteins in food products. The position is based at Kemicentrum, one of the largest centers for chemistry research and education in the Nordics. The department is renowned for its expertise in chemical engineering, food technology, biotechnology, and technical microbiology, and offers a collaborative and supportive research environment. The research project aims to unlock the potential of plant proteins, such as those from peas and chickpeas, by developing and applying new extraction and separation protocols. The successful candidate will characterise the functional properties of these protein fractions and investigate innovative ways to process and combine them to maximise their performance in complex food products, including emulsions, gels, and foams. The work will involve designing, planning, and executing experiments to prepare and analyse model food products, with the goal of advancing knowledge in protein functionality and food formulation. Main duties include conducting independent research, with teaching responsibilities comprising up to 20% of working hours. The position also offers three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. Additional responsibilities may include supervision of degree projects, seeking external research funding, collaboration with industry, and administrative tasks related to the research. Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field, awarded within the last three years (exceptions possible). Essential qualifications include strong English communication skills, first-author publications, deep theoretical and practical knowledge of protein functionality in food, and extensive experience in planning and conducting relevant experiments. Additional assets include experience in plant protein extraction, preparation of protein-based emulsions, gels, or foams, teaching, supervision, and industry collaboration. The position is a full-time, fixed-term contract for two years, with full funding and benefits as a public authority employee, including generous leave and pension. The application deadline is 15 December 2025. Applications should be submitted via the Lund University recruitment system and must include a CV, personal letter, degree certificate, and supporting documents. For further information, contact Professor Anna Fureby ([email protected]). For more details and to apply, visit the official job posting: Lund University Job Portal .