Bioprocess Intensification for carbon dioxide and waste-derived feedstock conversion to bio-based products

This PhD project will combine bioprocess intensification with data analytics to deliver a novel biological conversion route for waste derived feedstocks into an array of bio-based products.

To effectively address the climate crisis, we must transition towards a net-zero future and embrace a circular economy framework. The process industries play a significant role in greenhouse gas emissions, making it crucial for them to adopt sustainable practices. This includes utilising renewable fuels, materials, and resources to decarbonize operations and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Through collaboration between Biofuel Evolution Ltd, the PINZ CDT team, and CPI, this PhD project will investigate the biological conversion of captured carbon dioxide and waste-derived feedstocks into renewable products.

The candidate will first perform data analytics to map the composition of waste-derived feedstocks across domestic and global geographic regions. This will help us examine how seasonality (in particular weather conditions) might affect their fundamental characteristics and how waste streams will differ geographically. By understanding this, the candidate can then design, evolve and optimise highly characterised biocatalysts, microorganisms, and microbial consortia to convert waste-based feedstocks into new products.

Finally, using CPI's pilot plant facilities, the PhD student will have the opportunity to assess the scalability and usability of the processes/technologies that they have demonstrated in a laboratory environment, expanding on the breakthroughs and key learnings discovered.