PhD Position in Bioprocess Technology – Poultry Feather Bioconversion at Norwegian University of Life Sciences

A fully funded PhD position is available at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, located in Ås, Norway. The position is hosted by the BioSpec research group within the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Technology Management at the Faculty of Science and Technology. The PhD project is part of the KERANOR initiative, which focuses on converting poultry feathers into highly digestible protein products for fish and animal feed using microbial bioprocesses.

Research Focus

The PhD project aims to develop efficient, scalable, and microbial-based bioconversion processes for keratinous materials, primarily poultry feathers. The work will combine microbiology, enzymatic/fermentation techniques, analytical chemistry, and omics data analysis to optimize protein yield and digestibility. The research contributes to sustainable food and feed production and aligns with industrial biotechnology and circular bioeconomy initiatives.

Scope of Work

The PhD candidate will be responsible for:

• Developing and optimizing microbial hydrolysis of poultry feathers and other keratin-rich materials at various scales (100 mL to 100 L)

• Performing vibrational spectroscopy analyses and chemical reference analyses of hydrolysis samples

• Preparing samples for proteomics analysis in collaboration with the NMBU proteomics team

• Analyzing experimental data and interpreting omics datasets (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, etc.)

• Conducting high-quality research and disseminating findings via international journals and conferences

• Collaborating within the project team and with other partners to achieve project objectives

The candidate will develop a research plan during the first months of the appointment to ensure completion of a PhD within the three-year contract period.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in:

• Applied Biotechnology

• Biotechnology

• Microbiology

Additional requirements include:

• Documented knowledge and practical experience in microbiology

• Proficiency in written and spoken English

• Academic performance corresponding to grade B or better in the Norwegian educational system

• Personal motivation and suitability for doctoral research

Preferred Skills

Advantageous skills and experiences include:

• Experience with analytical chemistry methods (spectrophotometry, chromatography)

• Competence in data analysis and interpretation of omics data

• Experience in operating and managing laboratory- or pilot-scale bioprocesses

• Ability to work in interdisciplinary and collaborative research environments

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate demonstrates:

• Strong social and collaborative skills

• Effective time management and organizational abilities

• Ability to communicate research results clearly

• Motivation to complete the PhD within the set timeframe

Employment Terms

• Duration: 3 years, starting April 1

• Salary: NOK 550,800 per year (higher for exceptionally qualified candidates)

• Position code: 1017 – PhD Research Fellow

• Employment requires physical presence at NMBU for professional and laboratory interactions

The appointment follows the regulations of the Universities and University Colleges Act and the PhD degree regulations at NMBU, including provisions regarding state employment and export control legislation.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• Motivation letter (maximum 1 page)

• Curriculum vitae with education, positions, teaching, and publication list

• Certified copies of diplomas, transcripts, and diploma supplements (with English translations if required)

• Proof of English proficiency

• Names and contact information of two references

• Any additional relevant documentation of professional experience or research contributions

Applications must be submitted online via NMBU’s recruitment system by March 1, 2026.

Field of Study

Although the PhD is formally in Bioprocess Technology, the research is interdisciplinary and combines:

• Microbiology and Biotechnology (microbial keratin hydrolysis)

• Analytical Chemistry and Spectroscopy (vibrational analysis, chromatography)

• Proteomics and Omics Data Analysis

• Process Engineering and Bioprocess Scale-Up

• Sustainable Protein Production and Circular Bioeconomy

This PhD will provide training in microbial process optimization, experimental bioprocessing, analytical methods, and data-driven interpretation of bioconversion systems.

Apply now at : PhD position within Bioprocess Technology (295793) | Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)