Our society needs to transition from a linear to a circular model to mitigate the negative environmental impacts derived from the exploitation & utilization of materials, and their disposal as wastes. This is even more critical in Space. Long-term exploration missions will need to be (almost) self-sufficient, and all resources on board will need to be recycled in closed-loop regenerative life support systems. Microbial bioprocesses can be used to transform wastes into new resources, contributing to closing the resource loop, both in Space and on Earth.

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with an interest and affinity for process engineering to work on the development of novel mixed culture microbial processes for resource recovery. The selected candidate will work on the Thermomel project, a research project funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) to investigate the bioenergetics of acidogenic fermentations within the first compartment of the MELISSA (Micro-Ecological Life Support System Alternative; Melissa Foundation). Specifically, the researcher will investigate the conversion of carbohydrates in acidogenic fermentation conditions & the metabolic pathways involved.

All information and how to apply can be found here.