PhD Opportunity – ANR Funded Project (France)

PhD Opportunity – ANR Funded Project (France) Transform food waste into high-value ingredients for cosmetics and food using green chemistry and eco-extraction techniques. This interdisciplinary project involves ULCO, UCEIV, and Université Paris-Saclay.

Summary
A fully funded PhD position is available in France as part of the ANR-funded Re-Act project, in collaboration between ULCO, UCEIV, and Université Paris-Saclay. The research focuses on converting food waste into high-value compounds for the cosmetics and food industries, using innovative green chemistry and eco-extraction techniques.

Position Details

Location: France – Collaboration between ULCO, UCEIV, and IGPS (Université Paris-Saclay)
Funding: ANR project funding (full scholarship)
Start Date: Flexible before application deadline evaluation
Application Deadline: 01 October 2025

Project Overview
Food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. This project aims to transform food waste into valuable bioactive ingredients for cosmetics and food products, contributing to a circular economy and industrial symbiosis.

The research will develop a one-step, microwave-assisted extraction process using supramolecular green solvents. The work will involve:

Optimization of extraction parameters using response surface methodology (RSM)
Chemical analysis of extracts for phenolic and flavonoid content
Chromatographic identification and quantification of compounds
Biological testing for antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and ecotoxicity
Stability testing of bioactive compounds

Minimum Requirements

Master’s degree (Master 2) in chemistry, environmental chemistry, toxicology, drug and health product science, or related fields
Background in analytical chemistry, spectroscopy, chromatography, and cell culture
Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team and collaborate with specialists from different backgrounds

Keywords: Eco-extraction, upcycling, green chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, deep eutectic solvents, cyclodextrins

How to Apply
Submit your application online via: https://adum.fr/candidature/
Required documents: