Production of lactobionic acid by hydrolysis of lactose recovered following concentration by nanofiltration of acid whey before its deacidification by electrodialysis and subsequent purification by electrodialysis with bipolar membrane under pulsed electric field
Description
When processing whey and lactose-free dairy products, the dairy industry produces large quantities of lactose. The bioconversion of lactose into lactobionic acid can transform this by-product into a high value-added ingredient. Recently, we demonstrated the possibility of using electrodialysis with bipolar membrane (EDMB) to produce lactobionic acid which has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Hence, this project is part of a vast research project aiming a valuation of bio-food co-products and the development of eco-efficient processes (VITALE Consortium), through innovative and sustainable approaches based on electromembrane processes.
The objectives of this project are:
1) Determine the hydrolysis conditions by lactose oxidase allowing optimal production of lactobionate from lactose recovered after concentration by nanofiltration of acid whey before its deacidification by electrodialysis;
2) Produce lactobionic acid by electrodialysis with bipolar membranes (EDBM) under pulsed electric field (PEF) and evaluate the effectiveness of the process, including membrane fouling;
3) Develop a machine learning and/or biostatistical model predictive and/or explanatory of the impact of PEFs on the migration of lactobionic acid;
4) Study the bioactivity(s) of lactobionic acid.
Research Field
- Lactobionic acid
- Electrodialysis with bipolar membrane
- Pulsed electric fields
- Lactose
- Bioactivities
Research Supervisor
Hamoudi Safia
Research Environment
Food processing and electromembrane processes laboratory
Web Site
Financial Aid Available by Program of Study
Doctorate in Food Science
Program descriptionFinancial Aid Available*
Financial Aid Related to Research Project
$22000 per year for 3 years.
The position is full-time (100%) and placed at the department of Food Sciences, Laval University (Quebec, Canada), under the direction of Dr Safia Hamoudi and co-direction of Dr. Laurent Bazinet, for a fixed term of three years. Salary of 22 000$ /year (CAD) excluding social benefits and faculty grants.
Program-Specific Financial Aid
Graduate Studies Awards
| Milestone |
Amount |
| Submission and approval of research proposal AND project outline |
$3,000 |
| Expected progression in the study program |
$3,000 |
First submission of dissertation before the end of the 11th semester
|
$4,000 |
| Total |
$10,000 |
Université Laval: Student Financial Aid
Supplemental Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship Program: Entitles international students to pay Canadian student tuition fees, for overall savings of around $40,000.
* Amounts shown represent maximum financial aid available. Certain conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact sponsoring organizations directly.
Desired Profile
- Food Science and Technology
Requirements and Conditions
- Obtention of an engineering master or M.Sc degree in Food Engineering, Agronomy (food option), Biotechnology or Food science.
- Great interest in a career in applied research and technology development.
- Demonstrated written and spoken English skills.
- Speaking French is an advantage.
Required Documentation
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitæ
- Student transcript
Applications are due by August 31th, 2024 or until the candidate is selected. The candidate will start in Fall 2024 or according to his/her availability.
Application Deadline
September 30, 2024
Find Out More
Véronique Perreault
Professionnelle de recherche
Département des sciences des aliments
veronique.perreault.5@ulaval.ca