1 Post Doctoral Research Fellowship Level 1 PD1/PB/0114 in Ireland | Teagasc (Agriculture and Food Development Authority)

Project Title: Development of high protein bars as vehicles for functional ingredient delivery

The project builds on outcomes of preceding work with the specific aim to produce nutrient-dense protein products as delivery systems for functional and nutraceutical ingredients. The technical challenges to be addressed include:

• Development of physically stable, protein matrices, capable of protecting functional ingredients during storage through formulation optimisation, inclusion of intact and hydrolysed whey proteins, low glycaemic index carbohydrates and oil blends with specific fatty acid compositions.
• Establishment of the viability of selected probiotic strains in intermediate Aw environments (ca. 0.6-0.7), including development of strategies to enhance their survival.
• Presentation of concepts for commercial assessment, and engagement with the Teagasc Technology Transfer Office in the preparation of technological offers to interested parties.

Person Specification

This section outlines the qualifications, skills, knowledge and/or experience that the successful candidate would be required to demonstrate for successful discharge of the responsibilities of the post. Applications will be assessed on how well candidates satisfy these criteria.

Essential

• PhD in Food Science & Technology
• Relevant research experience not to exceed 3 years‘¦ post-PhD
• Demonstrated research and technical expertise in ingredient functionality and/or formulation
• Evidence of research activity (publications, conference presentations, awards) and future scholarly output (working papers, research proposals etc)
• Excellent project management, analytical, report writing and data analysis skills
• An ability to collaborate with team members and PhD students to help build research knowledge and skill and to guide professional development
• Excellent communication skills (oral, written, presentation) with an ability to enable effective knowledge and technology transfer
• Ability to generate new ideas, unique concepts, models and solutions