About the Project
Can Aotearoa New Zealand's indigenous geothermal microorganisms help power the next generation of sustainable biomanufacturing?
This PhD project will investigate whether indigenous hydrogen (H₂)-oxidising bacteria (hydrogenotrophs) from Aotearoa New Zealand's geothermal environments can be developed into next-generation production platforms for renewable hydrogen biomanufacturing.
Around the world, hydrogen-powered biotechnology is emerging as a transformative approach for converting renewable hydrogen and carbon dioxide into sustainable products, including protein-rich biomass for food and feed, chemicals, fuels, and advanced biomaterials. Yet most current technologies rely on a small number of model—often proprietary—microorganisms. In contrast, Aotearoa New Zealand's geothermal ecosystems harbour a remarkable diversity of hydrogenotrophic extremophiles adapted to industrially relevant conditions, including elevated temperatures, acidic pH, and naturally hydrogen-rich environments. Despite their promise, their biotechnology potential remains largely unexplored.
The successful candidate will work with a unique collection of geothermal microbial isolates and specialised H₂-fed bioreactor systems to optimise microbial growth, hydrogen utilisation, carbon dioxide fixation, and production of valuable bioproducts. Working within a highly collaborative, cross-disciplinary supervisory team, the student will help translate New Zealand's unique geothermal biodiversity into real-world biotechnology with commercial and environmental impact.
Applicants must have completed, or be eligible for admission to, a PhD programme at the University of Canterbury. A BE(Hons), BSc(Hons), MSc, or equivalent qualification in bioprocess engineering, microbiology, biotechnology, biochemical engineering, or a related discipline is preferred, together with evidence of significant prior research experience. Experience in microbial cultivation, gas fermentation, bioreactor operation, hydrogen-based bioprocesses, or analytical microbiology would be advantageous but is not essential.
All candidates wishing to be considered for this PhD scholarship must submit an application through the official UC scholarship portal at the link below. Applications made by email or direct enquiry alone will not be considered.
Funding Notes
Stipend of $32,650 (NZD) pa and PhD tuition fees for up to a total of three years (360 points); plus an additional $5,000 for research expenses across the duration of degree
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