Advancing drying and extraction for bioactives from microalgae and seaweeds

You will investigate advanced drying and extraction techniques to preserve heat-sensitive bioactive compounds from marine macroalgae and microalgae. Conventional methods like oven drying, spray drying (SD), and freeze drying (FD) often involve compromises between cost and compound stability. Electrostatic spray drying (ESD) offers a gentler alternative, potentially enhancing the retention of thermolabile compounds such as carotenoids, phenolics, and omega-3 fatty acids.

You will compare FD, SD, and ESD across red, green, and brown seaweeds, examining the role of carriers and emulsifiers in protecting bioactives during drying. You will assess green extraction methods, including ultrasound- and microwave-assisted extraction, for pigments, sterols, and polysaccharides recovery. 

You will also focus on developing omega-3-rich emulsions, their ESD encapsulation, and evaluation of bioaccessibility via in vitro digestion. Lab- and pilot-scale trials aim to determine optimal industrial processing conditions for producing stable, high-value marine-derived function.

Dr Baldelli's group at The University of Queensland provides a well-equipped food engineering and materials research environment, combining state-of-the-art drying systems (Buchi spray dryers, PolarDry freeze dryers) with advanced analytical tools (DSC, rheometry, UV-Vis, Mastersizer, Zetasizer).

The group focuses on bioactive encapsulation, nano- and micro-particle formulation, and functional ingredient stabilisation. It offers a collaborative HDR community, with opportunities to work on both lab- and pilot-scale trials, integrating formulation, processing, and in vitro bioaccessibility studies, supported by expertise in proteins, polysaccharides, and emulsions. The environment encourages hands-on experimental design, data analysis, and publication development, fostering both technical skill and research independence.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of chemical engineering, marine bioproducts, and particle technology would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field(s) of particle technology and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of spray drying, encapsulation and/or bioactive compounds is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 13 February, 2026 13 February, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Dr Alberto Baldelli (a.baldelli@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: SEAWEEDS-BALDELLI
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/advancing-drying-and-extraction-bioactives-microalgae-and-seaweeds

Submit an EOI