Valorisation of food waste, bioactive natural products, green bio-sorbents and corrosion inhibitors
With the increasing world population, comes a high demand for food and hence the food processing industry is fast growing in most countries with a consequent increase in food waste. As a result, food waste management will increase substantially.
Research Opportunities
Summary
Currently food waste and by-products generated, are not fully exploited and their disposal is presenting a continuously growing problem. Common by-products from the agricultural food industry are hulls, shells, husks, pods, stems, stalks, bran, seeds, washings, pulp refuse, stones, press cake/pomace. Recently we reported the antioxidant, protective properties, and potential application against neurodegenerative diseases of rapeseed by-product ethanol extract. Preliminary results in our laboratory have shown promising results when rapeseed pomace (RSP) and grape pomace were utilised as both green bio-sorbent in the purification of water and corrosion inhibitor (RSP).
The use of food waste and/or by-products for the extraction of useful phytochemicals together with their use as green bio-sorbents in the purification of water and as corrosion inhibitor could aid with the increased need for food while decreasing the amount of waste. This project will further investigate and assess these applications of common food waste/by-product towards meeting ‘zero-waste’ targets and a circular economy strategy.
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We welcome specific ideas from applicants for a potential research degree topic. The University offers a number of potential self-funded topics in each School which you could consider developing your research project around.
It is not unusual for a proposed research degree topic to evolve as you progress through the application stage and even your future studies. This ensures the best match of your academic/professional experience with that of your supervisory team.
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Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
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English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2023/2024
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,712 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,830 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,356 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £18,700 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,220 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,350 per academic year
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Funded Studentships
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How to Apply
Applications
All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at RGU.
Find out more about the English language qualification we accept:
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