Protein Extracts from Seaweeds

Pontifical Catholic University and Nestlé will support a doctoral student to conduct transformative research on projects that have the potential for real-world impact in natural sciences and engineering-related disciplines. The “Extraction of Proteins and Carbohydrates from Algae Using Novel Solvents” program at the Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering Department of the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile seeks to cultivate the creative talents of outstanding researchers at a critical time in their careers and helps them to achieve excellence for the duration of our fellowship and beyond.

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) are composed of mixtures of primary metabolites acting as hydrogen bond acceptors (HBA) and hydrogen bond donors (HBD). DES form a liquid mixture that can be used as an alternative to traditional organic solvents for sustainable separations. DES are promising solvents for protein and carbohydrate extraction using techniques such as aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) and solid precipitation, obtaining excellent yields. The research aims to evaluate DES under different HBA:HBD mole ratios, water content, and process techniques for improving the extraction yields of proteins and carbohydrates from algae. The most important feature that DES must accomplish is the selection of food-grade, odorless, and flavorless alternatives that do not affect the sensorial properties and functionalities of the extracted proteins and carbohydrates.

• Fellowships will include up to four years of scholarship support for the Ph.D. degree at the School of Engineering
• The last year will be spent at Nestlé facilities in Lausanne.
• Fellows will receive funding for research supplies and travel.
• Fellows should start August 7^th, 2023.

• Applicants must be eligible to study in Chile.
• Candidates must have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or other related areas, awarded by a university recognized by the State of Chile, or in the case of foreign institutions, by the State of the corresponding country.

• Candidates must submit a written application by June 30^th, 2023 by applying in the form below, including:
• 2 letters of recommendation
• CV
• Grades in their BSc course
• Applicants will be notified of the final decision by email by July 7^th.
• Between the 10^th and 15^th of July, the preselected students must submit their official application to the Ph.D. program via

• Creativity in past research – demonstration of problem-solving ability.
• Education – demonstration of aptitude for success in the proposed area of research.
• Resilience – demonstration of drive, persistence, and leadership skills in education and work history.
• Letters of support.