Lignocellulosic biomass (wood and agricultural wastes) is an important source of sustainable carbon and will play an central role in the upcoming transition away from fossil resources. Yet, current valorisation methods are strongly limited by undesired condensation reactions occurring during the initial pre-treatment step. To overcome this limitation, LPDC and Bloom Biorenewables Ltd have developed a unique protection mechanism – termed Aldehyde-Assisted Fractionation (AAF) – which leveraged on latest understanding in biomass chemistry and disrupted the field (Shuai et al., Science 2016). This method can, for the first time, extract a functionalise form of lignin and sugars that retains their native potential.
In the project, the PhD applicant will further investigate the chemistry of lignin and sugars to optimize the production of high-value products. The candidate will beneficiate from 5+ years of development around the AAF technology in a competitive environment. He/She will use established protocols to fractionate biomass, optimise the efficiency of lignin conversion to monomers and design routes to sustainable products, including fragrances, aroma, plastics, cosmetic ingredients, speciality chemicals, bulk chemicals and fuels. Producing high-value products is essential for the development of biorefineriy concepts. By contributing to the AAF technology, the candidate will play an essential role in making biorefining more cost-competitive and support the establishment of a strong bio-based industry.
This is a Marie Curie COFUND Position based in Switzerland with Industry (Bloom) and Academic Partner ( EPFL)
Applications will only be accepted via the application portal that can be accessed on the link below. Further Details on how to apply including eligibility on.
Applications will only be accepted through the application portal - https://biorbic.com/talent4bbi/#recruitment-call-information
All queries should come through our email address [Email Address Removed]
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