Nídia Lourenço

Research Fellowship for PhD in PHA production from agri-food waste and wastewater sludge at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, under the scientific supervision of Professor Nídia Lourenço . The fellowship is hosted by NOVA.id.FCT – Association for Innovation and Development of FCT, in Caparica, Portugal. The project focuses on the production of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) from agri-food waste and sludge from wastewater treatment plants using mixed microbial cultures. The research work spans a four-stage process: acidogenic fermentation , microbial culture selection , PHA accumulation , and extraction, purification, and characterization of the produced biopolymer. This is a strong opportunity for candidates interested in bioprocess engineering, biological engineering, and biotechnology, especially those working on circular economy and waste valorization. The fellowship lasts 6 months , beginning in September 2026 , with the possibility of renewal within the project term. It is funded by the European Commission under Horizon Europe . The monthly maintenance allowance is €1,901.00 , paid by bank transfer. Eligibility is targeted to candidates with a doctoral degree obtained within the last three years, or a PhD in Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or related areas . Applicants must also have experience in the production of PHA with mixed microbial cultures ; pilot-scale PHA production and experience in extraction/purification/characterization are advantageous. Foreign-degree holders must provide recognition or equivalence documentation as required by Portuguese regulations. Applications are open from 31 July 2026 to 13 August 2026 . Candidates should submit a single PDF by email to bioeng.gestao@fct.unl.pt , with subject line #NOVAID-B526 , including a motivation letter, CV, and academic degree documents (or a declaration of honor where applicable). Results will be communicated by email after evaluation.