PhD application form (TRACE project): Funded PhD Position in Technological Revolution towards a Circular Economy (TRACE)

Overview

The UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering is offering a funded PhD position as part of the SEUPB PEACEPLUS project. This opportunity focuses on developing an integrated assessment framework to evaluate the environmental and socio-economic impacts of smart technologies in Products of Animal Origin (POAO) supply chains. The research will explore the transformative potential of agri-food innovations, including IoT devices, AI-powered analytics, and digital platforms, to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and promote sustainability.

Project Description

The PhD project aims to advance the application of portable hyperspectral imaging and near-infrared (NIR) sensors for food quality prediction. Key objectives include:

• Measuring food quality attributes of POAO products (e.g., microbial counts, volatile compounds, pH, color, texture, spoilage indicators).

• Developing and operating a portable hyperspectral imaging instrument to collect data.

• Building and refining AI models to support research findings.

Requirements

• A primary degree and/or Master’s in Food Technology, Engineering, or Analytical Chemistry.

• Strong experience in food microbiology experiments.

• Proficiency in spectroscopy techniques (e.g., hyperspectral imaging, near-infrared).

• Programming skills in MATLAB, R, Python, or similar tools.

• Ability to write reports, prepare journal articles, deliver presentations, and work independently.

Award and Application

The PhD will be supervised by Dr. Junli Xu and Dr. Tamiris da Costa at UCD Biosystems and Food Engineering. Open to EU/UK and international candidates, the position offers a tax-free stipend of €19,200 per annum plus a contribution to fees up to a maximum of €19,200 over four years. 

The project duration is four years, with a deadline to submit applications on 15 August 2025, 5 p.m. Irish Standard Time. 

Expected commencement is September 2025 or January 2026.

To apply, please complete the form and submit all required documents by the deadline at [application link]. Include a full CV (3-page max) and a cover letter (2-page max) detailing relevant research/work experience and study motivation. 

Candidates must demonstrate excellent proficiency in written and spoken English (CEFR Level C1) and meet UCD language criteria.

Click HERE to apply