Kinetic Metabolic Modelling of Methanotrophs for Methane Bioconversion

Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming effect 25–80 times stronger than CO₂. Biotechnological conversion of methane from waste streams—such as biogas, landfill emissions, and industrial effluents from oil, gas, and mining—offers a promising route for sustainable valorisation. Aerobic methanotrophs can convert methane into single-cell protein for food and feed applications.
Scaling-up gas fermentation processes to industrial levels is challenging. At a large scale, microorganisms often experience rapid and frequent fluctuations in dissolved gas concentrations due to mass transfer limitations and concentration gradients. These fluctuations influence the metabolic regulation of methanotrophs, potentially affecting growth and methane conversion efficiency.

This project will focus on developing a kinetic metabolic model of methanotrophs and applying a systems biology approach to capture their metabolic response to industrially relevant concentration fluctuations.

This project will be undertaken within the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), a renowned research institute equipped with state-of-the-art facilities specifically designed for gas fermentation research. AIBN's gas fermentation facility has gained international recognition for its pioneering use of instrumented fermentors, which are critical for developing scalable bioprocesses. Moreover, the Biosustainability Hub at AIBN encompasses two significant NCRIS facilities: IDEA Bio and Q-MAP. IDEA Bio operates as a bioprocess biofoundry, offering comprehensive tools and expertise for bioprocess development, whereas Q-MAP delivers advanced systems biology services. Together, these facilities position the Biosustainability Hub as a specialised centre of excellence, dedicated to advancing the Australian biotechnology sector through innovative research and development. This vibrant research environment provides an ideal setting for conducting high-impact PhD research aimed at transforming waste GhGs into valuable biochemicals.

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 microbial metabolism and bioprocess engineering would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the field/s of biotechnology, bioprocess engineering, microbiology, systems biology, chemical engineering, or a related field, and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of modelling or bioreactor experience is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 1 December, 2025 1 December, 2025.

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 Mariko Terasaki Hart (m.terasakihart@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: METHANOTROPHS-MARCELLIN
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/kinetic-metabolic-modelling-methanotrophs-methane-bioconversion

Submit an EOI