PhD Position in Precision Fermentation & Protein Biomanufacturing | Grossmann Lab, UMass Amherst
Listed on 2026-10-02
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Research/Development
Research Scientist, Biomedical Science, Biotech Research, Biotechnology
Institution: University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst)
Department: Department of Food Science, College of Natural Science
The Grossmann Lab in the Department of Food Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a motivated PhD student to join a newly launched research project focused on precision fermentation and next-generation protein ingredients
.
The project will explore microbial expression systems and integrated approaches for developing novel food proteins, with significant translational potential from laboratory research toward real-world applications
.
The PhD project will focus on developing and characterizing next-generation protein ingredients through microbial expression systems
.
Key research areas include:
- Biomanufacturing of novel protein ingredients
- Microbial expression systems
- Translational biotechnology
- Integrated micro-supply-chain approaches
The project provides an opportunity to work across multiple stages of the research and development process, from biomanufacturing and protein expression to downstream characterization and application
.
The selected PhD student will lead a newly launched research project within the Grossmann Lab.
Potential research activities include:
- Optimizing protein production and expression.
- Conducting downstream characterization of expressed proteins.
- Applying biomanufacturing approaches to food protein research.
- Connecting laboratory-scale research with potential real-world applications.
- Working within an integrated micro-supply-chain approach to protein research.
- Developing and taking ownership of a new research direction.
The project offers strong potential for translational research
, bridging fundamental laboratory research and future applications in the food and biotechnology sectors.
Applicants should have:
- An MS degree in Food Science, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field
. - A publication record is desirable.
- Strong motivation to develop and lead a new research project.
- Interest in translational research and technology development
. - Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Ability to contribute effectively within a multidisciplinary research environment
.
The PhD student will work within the Grossmann Lab under the supervision of Prof. Lutz Grossmann
.
The position provides an opportunity to gain interdisciplinary experience across:
- Biotechnology
- Microbial biotechnology
- Biomanufacturing
- Translational research
The student will be expected to take substantial ownership of the newly launched project while working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
What You’ll Gain- Research experience in precision fermentation
. - Hands-on experience with microbial expression systems.
- Training in protein expression and characterization
. - Exposure to biomanufacturing approaches for novel food proteins.
- Experience in translational and application-oriented research.
- Opportunity to lead a newly launched research project.
- Interdisciplinary experience across food science and biotechnology.
- Experience connecting laboratory research with real-world applications.
- Opportunity to develop a research profile in an emerging area of protein production.
Position: PhD Student
Funding: Fully Funded
Duration: 4 Years
Funding Includes: Stipend + Tuition
Anticipated Start:
Spring 2027 or earlier
Employment/Training: Full-Time PhD Research
The position is anticipated to begin in Spring 2027 or earlier
.
Application Materials: CV | Research Interest Statement | 2 References
Institution: University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst)
Department: Department of Food Science
Position: PhD Student
Location: Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
Project: Newly Launched Precision Fermentation Project
Degree Requirement: MS in Food Science | Biotechnology | Microbiology | Biochemistry | Related Field
Preferred: Publication Record
Research Approach: Translational Research | Integrated Micro-Supply-Chain Approach
Funding: Fully Funded
Duration: 4 Years
Funding Coverage: Stipend + Tuition
Anticipated Start: Spring 2027 or Earlier
Application Materials: CV | Brief Research Interest Statement | Contact Information for 2 References
PhD Position | Precision Fermentation | Food Science | Biotechnology | Microbial Biotechnology | Protein Expression | Translational Research | UMass Amherst | Grossmann Lab | PhD USA
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