Cereal-based milk alternatives like oat milk represent an emerging segment in novel food products, characterised by a reduced carbon footprint and possessing health benefits including fibre, vitamin, and low saturated fat content. Oat milk, however, is lower in protein content and calcium and higher in calories. Moreover, heat treatment can lead to starch gelatinisation that lowers acceptability. This project will use proteomics to inform cultivar selection with modified grain macronutrient composition and elevated alpha-/beta-amylase content that can lead to improved starch hydrolysis and to obtain beverages with consumer acceptable product attributes. It will also explore oat-derived proteins that deliver enhanced health benefits and track these via proteomics in diverse cultivars.
The opportunity
The CSIRO Industry PhD Program (iPhD) is a four-year research training program that focuses on applied research and working with the industry sector. It aims to produce the next generation of innovation leaders with the skills to work at the interface of research and industry in Australia.
The Program includes:
Successful students are subject to the policies, procedures, and guidelines of the host university in addition to the CSIRO Industry PhD Program terms and conditions. Students will receive a standard PhD on completion.
Ideal student
The ideal student will have a passion for agriculture and applied research. The project will involve protein biochemistry, analytical chemistry including liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, and bioinformatics, so skills in these fields would be beneficial. Experience with grains and/or food science is also welcome.
The student should have strong problem-solving skills, good oral and written communication, be able to work independently and in a team, be able to manage time effectively and a desire to deliver impact.
Location
The student must:
Applicants are required to submit an expression of interest (EOI) direct to the university supervisor: Angela Juhasz
General program information
Project specific information
Contact the nominated supervisors listed below: