EngD: Sustainable Process Design – Optimizing Biopolymer Extraction

The University of Groningen is committed to strengthening the Northern Netherlands by addressing modern challenges such as energy transition and sustainability. The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) contributes to this mission by training skilled professionals through our new EngD programme in Sustainable Process Design. This 2-year post-master design programme, closely collaborating with local companies, focuses on the direct needs of the industry.

The Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG-part of the FSE) of the University of Groningen is offering a fully funded 2-year position to master graduates leading to the award of an EngD (Engineering Doctorate) degree. The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for one year. The EngD programme includes specialized EngD and professionalization courses at the University of Groningen and a design project which will be performed at Paques Biomaterials and the University of Groningen. The position offered is in the context of the project Paques Biomaterials – Optimizing the Full Scale Extraction of Natural Biopolymers.

The company, Paques Biomaterials, converts organic residues, such as food waste and wastewater, into natural biopolymers that can replace plastics in day-to-day life. These biopolymers, called PHBVs, are marketed under the name Caleyda® and have superior biodegradability. Paques Biomaterials uses an innovative fermentation approach to produce the PHA with bacteria. The PHA is subsequently harvested through green solvent extraction.

Paques Biomaterials will build its first Caleyda® (PHBV) Extraction Plant (CEP) in Emmen, to be ready in 2028. This plant will receive biomass containing PHBV and purify PHBV that will be formulated as powder or pellets. This will be the first of its kind to demonstrate the overall Caleyda® production concept and business case.