This fully funded PhD opportunity, offered through the FoodBioSystems Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP), focuses on seaweed bioprocessing and flavour chemistry. The project, SALTERA, aims to develop low-sodium salts and umami enhancers from seaweed using advanced membrane processing, analytical chemistry, and sensory science. The research combines extraction, LC-MS/GC-MS, membrane separation, protein hydrolysates, and sustainability assessment, with training split between the University of Reading and Aberystwyth University.

Supervised by a multidisciplinary team including Dr Maria Jose Oruna-Concha (lead, University of Reading), Dr Jessica Adams (Aberystwyth University), Dr Eugene Mohareb (University of Reading), Professor Lisa Methven (University of Reading), and Dr David Warren-Walker (Aberystwyth University), the student will work on innovative food science methods to create novel, low-sodium salt and flavour enhancer products. The project addresses public health concerns related to excessive dietary salt intake and leverages seaweed’s rich flavour-enhancing compounds and plant-based proteins for food innovation.

During the PhD, the student will prepare and characterise seaweed extracts, assess their performance in sensory and consumer trials, extract and process seaweed proteins to generate umami-rich peptides, and carry out environmental impact assessments. The training includes placements at both institutions, hands-on experience in analytical techniques (LC-MS, GC-MS), sensory science, and sustainability analysis. Cohort training covers food systems, big data, business, and research fundamentals.

Applicants should have a background in food science, food technology, nutrition, or related subjects, with experience in ingredient functionality, sensory evaluation, and analytical chemistry. The studentship is fully funded for UK/Home/ROI students, covering stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26), tuition, and research costs. International students may apply but must cover additional fees and costs. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are actively promoted, with reasonable adjustments and mentoring available for eligible candidates.

For more information and to apply, visit the FoodBioSystems DTP and University of Reading websites. Contact the lead supervisor for queries and prepare your application materials as instructed.