Fully Funded PhD in Sustainable Oleochemical Manufacturing at University of Queensland, Australia

Summary

The University of Queensland (UQ) is offering a fully funded PhD Research Project Scholarship focused on developing advanced Single Cell Oil (SCO) production strategies. This project aims to optimise carbon partitioning, process performance, and industrial feasibility to generate sustainable oils and oleochemicals from renewable feedstocks, decoupling lipid supply from conventional agriculture.

Fully Funded PhD in Sustainable Oleochemical Manufacturing at University of Queensland, Australia

Designation

• Position: PhD Candidate / Graduate Researcher
• Funding: Fully Funded Research Project Scholarship

Quick Overview

Research Area

• Biological Sciences
• Bioprocess Engineering / Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Sciences

Location

• Campus: St Lucia Campus, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
• Facility: Andrew N. Liveris Building (School of Chemical Engineering)

Eligibility & Qualifications

Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis taking into account academic performance, research potential, publication record, honours, and relevant experience.

• Educational Background: A degree or strong background in Bioscience Engineering, (Bio)chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or an equivalent field.
• Key Competencies & Knowledge:
  • Demonstrated academic achievement in microbial biotechnology, bioprocess engineering, or bioscience engineering.
  • Practical or working knowledge of:
    • Microbial cultivation and physiology
    • Bioreactor operation and design
    • Quantitative data analysis
• General Entry: Candidates must meet standard UQ eligibility criteria for PhD admission.

Job Description / Project Details

Single cell oil (SCO) production provides a sustainable alternative for producing oils and oleochemicals from renewable and non-refined feedstocks. Harnessing the metabolic capacity of oleaginous microorganisms, SCO systems convert diverse carbon sources into energy-dense triacylglycerols with high productivity and operational flexibility.

Responsibilities & Research Goals:

• Develop advanced SCO production strategies to maximize lipid yields while maintaining high process efficiency and scalability.
• Investigate and optimize carbon partitioning, bioprocess kinetics, and operational performance in microbial systems.
• Work with state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure, analytical tools, and bioprocess engineering systems within the Andrew N. Liveris Building and UQ core facilities.

How to Apply

To apply for this project and scholarship, candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) directly through the university portal:

1. Pre-Application Inquiry: Contact Principal Supervisor Dr. Ramon Ganigue at r.ganigue@uq.edu.au if you have questions about project suitability.
2. Prepare Documentation: Ensure academic transcripts, CV, and eligibility credentials are standardly prepared.
3. Submit EOI: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for the PhD program (a separate application for the scholarship is not required).
4. Complete Scholarship Section in EOI:
   • Applying for advertised project: Select Yes
   • Project Name: Research project scholarship
   • Scholarship Code: OLEOCHEMICALS-GANIGUE
   • Link to Advertisement: [https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/engineering-scalable-single-cell-oil-production-sustainable-manufacturing-oleochemicals](https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/engineering-scalable-single-cell-oil-production-sustainable-manufacturing-oleochemicals)

Last Date to Apply

• Expression of Interest (EOI) Deadline: 25 August 2026

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