Fibre-based packaging for shelf-life extension of food products

Applications are invited for a four-year, fully funded PhD position as part of the DAFM-supported project, a collaborative research involving Technological University Dublin, Teagasc Ashtown Food Research Centre, and University College Cork. The project focuses on developing compostable, fibre-based packaging to extend the shelf life of food products. The successful candidate will contribute to the development, characterisation, validation, and sustainability assessment of biopolymer-based and fibre-based packaging systems using renewable resources.

The position is suitable for a highly motivated candidate with an interest in sustainable food packaging, biopolymer materials, fibre-based packaging, circular bioeconomy, and environmental sustainability.

Essential requirements

The successful candidate should have:

• A Master’s degree, or a First-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree, in biomaterials science, polymer chemistry, chemistry, food packaging, or a closely related discipline.

• Knowledge and practical laboratory skills relevant to bio-based polymer material preparation, fibre-based packaging formulation, sample preparation, and experimental testing.

• Understanding and demonstrated application of Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) principles.

• Knowledge and experience of fibre processing and moulded fibre packaging formats.

• Evidence of experience in packaging performance testing, including mechanical testing, thermal analysis, structural analysis, colour measurement, morphology, and barrier-property evaluation.

• Proficiency in analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, FTIR, UV–Vis, DSC/TGA, rheological analysis, water vapour permeability testing, and microscopy.

Data analysis and optimisation

• Experience with statistical analysis software, such as SPSS or related tools, for data processing and interpretation.
• Practical experience with LCA software or databases, such as SimaPro, OpenLCA, Ecoinvent, or related tools.
• Ability to collect, analyse, interpret, and present experimental and sustainability-related data clearly.
• Ability to perform experimental design and optimisation for material formulation and packaging performance improvement.

Scientific writing and communication

• Strong scientific writing skills, with experience in preparing research reports, dissertations, manuscripts, or journal articles.
• Ability to present research findings at conferences, seminars, industry meetings, and public engagement events.
• Ability to work collaboratively with academic, industry, and stakeholder partners, supported by strong communication, organisational, and teamwork skills.

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of English language proficiency must be provided. Detailed requirements can be found at TU Dublin English Language Requirements.

Application process

Applicants should submit the following as one single PDF document:
• An up-to-date CV.
• A short statement outlining relevant experience.

Only candidates shortlisted for an interview will be contacted. The interview will take place in the week starting from 22nd June 2026.

Funding Agency: Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Student Stipend per annum: €25,000

Fees covered by the funding per annum: € 5,500

Materials & Travel Budget per annum: € 10,000

Duration of Funding: 48 Months

If you are interested in submitting an application for this project, please complete an Expression of Interest.

 https://forms.office.com/e/0hCcrv2Gkp