Project Description

The position focuses on the study of nanoemulsified antimicrobials in active packaging for the preservation of processed foods. Key activities include:

• Development of bacterial cellulose as a carrier for incorporating nanoemulsions
• Incorporation of nanoemulsions into bacterial cellulose to improve their release from packaging
• Data analysis, modeling, and interpretation
• Preparation of reports and publications based on results

The position is associated with two current R&D&I projects:

• “Microbiological validation of aseptic packaging equipment” (reference 6856/21IA)
• “Microbiological validation of a food sterilization process prior to packaging” (reference 7737/23IA)

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Why This Postdoctoral Position Stands Out

This postdoctoral position is unique because it combines nanotechnology (nanoemulsified essential oils) with food packaging (active antimicrobial packaging) and biomaterials (bacterial cellulose as a carrier). Essential oils are natural antimicrobial agents, but their volatility and low water solubility limit their application. Nanoemulsification improves their stability and efficacy. Bacterial cellulose is a biodegradable, renewable material produced by bacteria. The integration of these technologies could lead to novel active packaging solutions for processed foods. The position offers an indefinite contract (permanent), which is rare for postdoctoral positions, with a gross annual salary of €39,493.58. For a PhD graduate interested in food technology and antimicrobial packaging, this is an opportunity to work at the intersection of nanotechnology, microbiology, and food engineering.

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Key Responsibilities

• Study the effect of nanoemulsified antimicrobials in active packaging for preservation of processed foods
• Develop bacterial cellulose as a carrier for incorporating nanoemulsions
• Incorporate nanoemulsions into bacterial cellulose to improve release from packaging
• Perform data analysis, modeling, and interpretation
• Prepare reports and publications based on results

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Eligibility Criteria

Requirement	Details
Qualification	Doctorate in degrees in the agri-food sector
Alternative Qualification	If PhD not held, candidates must have training and experience commensurate with tasks: training in food technology, food microbiology, microbiological risk assessment; AND at least 12 months postdoctoral professional experience
Degree Recognition	Foreign degrees must provide proof of recognition or equivalence in Spain

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Selection Criteria (Merits to be Assessed)

Criterion	Weight
Academic background	10% – Specialized academic training in agri-food sector (food technology, food microbiology, microbiological risk assessment)
Specific training	10% – Training related to the position profile
Professional experience	40% – Postdoctoral research experience
Languages	20% – English proficiency
Personal interview	20% – If necessary to determine ranking

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What They Offer

Benefit	Details
Contract Type	Indefinite (permanent)
Start Date	June 14, 2026
Location	Cartagena, Spain
Salary	€39,493.58 gross annually
Hours	37.5 hours per week
Teleworking	Yes
Place of Work	ETSIA

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My Application Tips

1. Highlight your postdoctoral experience – 40% weight, with at least 12 months required
2. Emphasize food microbiology and food technology expertise – Academic background and specific training in these areas are heavily weighted
3. Show English proficiency – 20% weight, so official certification is valuable
4. Demonstrate experience with nanotechnology or active packaging – Nanoemulsions, essential oils, or antimicrobial packaging experience is directly relevant
5. Prepare for a personal interview – 20% weight if conducted

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Who Should Apply

This postdoctoral position is perfect for a PhD graduate in agri-food sciences, food technology, or microbiology with postdoctoral experience. If you have expertise in antimicrobial compounds, nanoemulsions, or active food packaging, and enjoy interdisciplinary research combining microbiology, materials science, and food engineering, this position offers a permanent contract – unusual for postdoctoral roles. Candidates with experience in bacterial cellulose or essential oils are especially encouraged.

Useful Links

• Research Associate PhD Molecular Plant Physiology Germany | Justus Liebig University Giessen
• PhD Plant Microbiome Cereals Germany | ZALF Leibniz Centre
• More Postdoc Positions