"PhD Studentship : Determination and Exposure Assessment of emerging Alternaria mycotoxins in selected foodstuffs"

This project provides comprehensive training in innovative analytical techniques designed to explore fungal contaminants and their toxins in food, making a tangible impact on food safety and public health. As a successful candidate, you will benefit from full financial support, dedicated academic guidance, and the opportunity to contribute to impactful research that holds significant relevance for the industry. Join us in making a difference!

Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by various fungi that contaminate food crops, posing significant risks to human and animal health. Among these, Alternaria mycotoxins are emerging as contaminants of increasing concern due to their presence in a wide range of commonly consumed foodstuffs, including cereals, fruits, and vegetables. With rising global attention on food safety, climate-resilient agriculture, and regulatory controls, accurate detection and risk assessment of such mycotoxins have become critical components of modern food science, toxicology, and public health disciplines.

This MSc by Research project aims to identify and quantify emerging Alternaria mycotoxins in selected food commodities using advanced analytical techniques, and to assess dietary exposure risks to consumers. The research will involve method development using LC-MS/MS for toxin detection, sample collection, data analysis, and comparison of results against current safety thresholds. The project will also explore potential processing or environmental factors influencing toxin presence, contributing valuable insights to the food safety knowledge base.

Cranfield University is a postgraduate institution renowned for its research impact, strong industry partnerships, and focus on applied science. This project is supported by Barilla, a multinational food company dedicated to enhancing food quality and safety throughout the supply chain. Working within the Magan Centre of Applied Mycology (MCAM) in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences (FEAS), the student will benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, expert supervision, and collaboration with a wider multidisciplinary team of scientists and industrial partners.

The project is expected to generate critical data on the occurrence and levels of Alternaria mycotoxins in relevant food commodities, contributing to a better understanding of exposure risks and supporting the development of future regulatory and food safety policies. Findings may inform industry best practices, influence public health recommendations, and identify research gaps for further toxicological evaluation of lesser-known mycotoxins.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit candidates with a strong interest in food safety, public health, environmental science, or biological sciences. It is particularly suited for those who are curious about how contaminants, such as mycotoxins, affect food systems, health outcomes, and regulatory frameworks.

Funding

Sponsored by Barilla, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £20,780 plus fees* for one year. To be eligible, applicants must be classified as a Home fee status student.

How to apply

For further information please contact: Andrea Patriarca