University of Canterbury
1 week ago
PhD in Geothermal Hydrogenotrophs for Renewable Hydrogen Biomanufacturing University of Canterbury in New Zealand
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Microbiology
Funding
Funded PhD project. Stipend of $32,650 NZD per annum and PhD tuition fees covered for up to three years (360 points), plus an additional $5,000 for research expenses over the degree duration.
Deadline
Oct 25, 2026
Country
New Zealand
University
University of Canterbury
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About this position
PhD opportunity at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand in geothermal microbiology, hydrogenotrophs, renewable hydrogen biomanufacturing, bioprocess engineering, microbiology, biotechnology, and gas fermentation.
This funded PhD project asks whether Aotearoa New Zealand’s indigenous geothermal microorganisms can be developed into next-generation platforms for converting renewable hydrogen and carbon dioxide into valuable products. The project focuses on hydrogen-oxidising bacteria (hydrogenotrophs) from geothermal environments and their potential for sustainable biomanufacturing.
The successful candidate will work with a unique collection of geothermal microbial isolates and specialised H₂-fed bioreactor systems to optimise microbial growth, hydrogen utilisation, carbon dioxide fixation, and production of useful bioproducts. The research sits at the intersection of microbiology, biotechnology, chemical engineering, and environmental sustainability, with possible applications in protein-rich biomass, chemicals, fuels, and advanced biomaterials.
Eligibility highlights: applicants must have completed, or be eligible for admission to, a PhD programme at the University of Canterbury. A BE(Hons), BSc(Hons), MSc, or equivalent qualification in bioprocess engineering, microbiology, biotechnology, biochemical engineering, or a related discipline is preferred. Prior research experience is important, and experience with microbial cultivation, gas fermentation, bioreactor operation, hydrogen-based bioprocesses, or analytical microbiology would be advantageous.
Funding includes a stipend of $32,650 NZD per year, full PhD tuition fees for up to three years, and an additional $5,000 for research expenses.
Applications must be submitted through the official University of Canterbury scholarship portal. The post states that applications by email or direct enquiry alone will not be considered.
Deadline shown on the listing: 2026-10-25.
Funding details
Funded PhD project. Stipend of $32,650 NZD per annum and PhD tuition fees covered for up to three years (360 points), plus an additional $5,000 for research expenses over the degree duration.
What's required
Applicants must have completed, or be eligible for admission to, a PhD programme at the University of Canterbury. A BE(Hons), BSc(Hons), MSc, or equivalent qualification in bioprocess engineering, microbiology, biotechnology, biochemical engineering, or a related discipline is preferred. Significant prior research experience is expected. Experience in microbial cultivation, gas fermentation, bioreactor operation, hydrogen-based bioprocesses, or analytical microbiology is advantageous but not essential.
How to apply
Submit an application through the official University of Canterbury scholarship portal linked in the posting. Do not apply by email or direct enquiry alone, as those will not be considered.
More information can be found here
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