Research Engineer

Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research

KU is seeking a highly motivated Research Engineer to work on the funded project focusing on the use of microalgae in developing functional beverages for enhanced health benefits. The successful candidate will conduct research, develop innovative processes, and optimize the production of microalgae-derived ingredients for use in health and nutrition products.

Key Responsibilities

1. Conduct research on various microalgae species to identify and extract bioactive compounds beneficial for functional beverage development.
2. Develop and optimize cultivation, harvesting, and extraction processes to maximize yield and quality of algae/seaweed/probiotic-derived ingredients.
3. Promote sustainable and cost-effective systems for food-related products and biomaterials that leverage advanced biotechnological methods on an industrial scale.
4. Promote the current UAE resources to develop biomaterials and functional food.
5. Test the endotoxin and cytotoxicity of these developed functional biomaterials and foods.

As part of the project, the Research Engineer will have access to state-of-the-art research equipment and facilities at the Food Security and Technology Center and will get an opportunity to work alongside outstanding faculty members, researchers, and graduate students with various backgrounds, gaining valuable experience in advancing food security by promoting sustainable and scalable solutions for alternative functional beverages.

Desired Candidate Profile

Position Requirements

1. Strong research background in tissue engineering, microalgae/seaweed/microbiology cultivation, protein extraction, food processing, or bioengineering.
2. Proficiency in protein characterization methods (e.g., electrophoresis, chromatography, spectroscopy) for assessing functionality and quality of alternative proteins.
3. Proficiency in cytotoxicity for assessing any toxicity of new bioactive compounds or functional biomaterials.
4. Proficiency in industrial applications and translation.
5. Support the research team to assume internationally competitive research and development.
6. Adhere to the University's information security and confidentiality policies and procedures, and report breaches or other security risks accordingly.
7. Perform any other tasks assigned by the Line Manager.

Candidate Profile:

1. PhD from a reputable university in biochemistry, biological sciences, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, or related discipline.
2. Experience in the bioengineering industry.
3. Experience writing scientific or review papers.
4. A willingness to contribute to a collaborative and supportive team culture.
5. Excellent English language communication skills (verbal and written).
6. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
7. The proven ability to work on multiple tasks with competing demands and deadlines.
8. Ability to train and mentor students and support fellow researchers.
9. Highly developed reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Desired Criteria

1. PhD gained from a top 600 QS or THE ranked University.
2. At least 1 year of relevant experience in academia or industry.
3. High-impact first-author publications in the top 10% of journals in the relevant field.
4. Involvement in industrial projects.

Company Industry

• Education
• Training
• Teaching

Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research