PhD Position in Precision Fermentation & Protein Biomanufacturing | Grossmann Lab, UMass Amherst

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