Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: Grain Science & Food Structure – University of Guelph – Canada
About the University of Guelph
Applications are open for a fully funded PhD position at the University of Guelph through the NSERC CREATE – The Future is Gree(ai)n program. Located in Ontario, Canada, the University of Guelph is internationally recognized for its excellence in agricultural, food, and environmental sciences. The Department of Food Science offers a world-class research environment with strong industry partnerships and a commitment to student success.
This interdisciplinary PhD project explores how the structural architecture of grains influences food quality and how researchers can use this knowledge, together with data science and artificial intelligence, to develop high-value grain-based ingredients.
Scholarship Overview
Research Areas
- Grain Science
- Food Structure & Function
- Digestion, Techno-function & Flavour
- Data Science, Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence
- Food Processing
- Food Quality
Project Description
This PhD position is part of the NSERC CREATE Gree(ai)n program, a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and multi-university research initiative. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with the Dairy Science, Food Processing, Structure and Quality, and Grain Science and Technology Research Groups at the University of Guelph.
Key aspects of the project include :
- Developing innovative data-driven platforms using machine learning to analyze process-structure-function relationships in grains
- Performing multi-scale structural analysis of grain materials and examining transformations during food processing
- Investigating how structural changes impact nutrient digestion, flavor release, and ingredient functionality
- Utilizing advanced analytical techniques such as spectral and imaging methods, GC-MS, LC-MS, in vitro digestion assays, kinetic modeling, and AI
- Participating in industry internships, academic exchanges, and professional development activities through the CREATE program
Why This Scholarship Stands Out
This PhD is unique because it sits at the intersection of food science, data science, and artificial intelligence. The program is part of the prestigious NSERC CREATE initiative, offering hands-on training with cutting-edge tools such as spectroscopy, GC-MS, and LC-MS . The project includes industry internships, research exchanges, and professional development opportunities across academia, industry, and government. For a student interested in sustainable food systems, grain science, and machine learning, this is an opportunity to conduct transformative research with real-world impact on food security and public health .
Candidate Profile and Eligibility
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or related discipline |
| Technical Skills | Strong background in food chemistry, food processing, and laboratory techniques |
| Analytical Skills | Experience with vibrational spectroscopy, chromatography, or mass spectrometry is an asset |
| Data Skills | Skills in advanced data analysis, including chemometrics, machine learning, or kinetic modeling |
| Personal Qualities | Passion for interdisciplinary research, ability to work independently and collaboratively |
| Commitment | Eagerness to participate in professional development, research mobility, and industry partnerships |
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding | Fully funded PhD position (NSERC CREATE program) |
| Training | Hands-on research, specialized training, and professional development |
| Industry Engagement | Industry internships and research exchanges |
| Collaboration | Multi-university and industry collaboration |
| Research Environment | Supportive, inclusive environment grounded in EDI and Indigenization principles |
My Application Tips
- Highlight your educational background in Food Science, Food Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field, as candidates with these qualifications are preferred.
- Emphasize data analysis and machine learning skills – The project integrates AI and data science
- Show laboratory experience – Spectroscopy, chromatography, or mass spectrometry experience is an asset
- Demonstrate interdisciplinary interest – The project spans food science, data science, and AI
- Submit your application through the official online application form only. The organization will not consider applications submitted through any other channel.
Who Should Apply
We seek PhD candidates with backgrounds in food science, food engineering, chemistry, or related fields who want to work at the intersection of grain science, food structure, and artificial intelligence.
The project explores how grain structure influences food quality and how machine learning can help design high-value food ingredients. It provides training in food chemistry, data analytics, sustainable innovation, molecular methods, and data analysis..
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official online application form. Only applications submitted using this form will be considered.
For questions, contact:
- ijoye@uoguelph.ca.
- biniam@uoguelph.ca
