PhD in Food Science and Bioinformatics: Penn State University is seeking applications to hire a PhD student into the Department of Food Science, beginning in Fall 2026.
The position is available in a research team that focuses on structural bioinformatics, food proteins and enzymology. It provides a distinctive chance to students who want to use computational and biochemical instruments to comprehend and enhance the molecular processes in the food systems.
The selected PhD student will be part of Penn State’s collaborative environment and become a member of the most reputable community of researchers in the Food Science and Bioinformatics, and Genomics.
Why Pursue a PhD in Food Science and Bioinformatics at Penn State University?
- The study is at the interface of food science, biochemistry and computational biology, providing students with opportunities to work at the contact point between molecular biology, protein chemistry and data-driven analysis.
- Throughout the program, financial stability is guaranteed, covering tuition fees, living stipends and seminar travels.
- Work closely with Dr Yi Zhang, an Assistant Professor specializing in food macromolecules, enzymology, and bioinformatics.
- Students are equipped with the skills in structural bioinformatics, protein modelling and elucidation of enzyme mechanisms aided by the stringent experimental and computational methods.
- The opportunity to utilize the advanced computational environments and biochemical labs of Penn State.
- Recruitment and retention of students with underrepresented and diverse backgrounds are actively pursued, which creates an inclusive and collaborative culture of research.
Position Description – PhD in Food Science and Bioinformatics
The PhD position focuses on the molecular and structural understanding of food proteins and enzymes. Research areas include:
Protein Structure -Function Relationships: Exploring the effects of sequence differences on structural folding, stability, and protein-protein interactions of proteins of food interest.
Enzymatic: This is a description of the catalytic activity of enzymes, which are used in food processing and nutrient transformation.
Computational Protein Modelling: The project aims at predicting protein structure, function and stability of proteins in various food processing conditions by applying bioinformatics and molecular simulation.
Food Biochemistry and Functional Genomics: The Applications of Computational Genomics to Investigate How Genetic and Proteomic Information Can Be Utilized in the Development of Sustainable, Functional Foods.
The combination of computational modelling with experimental enzymology can enable the lab to address basic and applied problems in the field of food biochemistry, from enzyme engineering to the analysis of protein allergenicity.
Qualifications for a PhD in Food Science and Bioinformatics at Penn State University
- Prospective candidates who wish to be admitted to Penn State’s graduate program in bioinformatics and genomics must have:
- Have a strong academic background in structural bioinformatics, food proteins, and enzymology.
- Experience conducting research is preferred.
- English language proficiency. International applicants must take either the IELTS or the TOEFL.
Note: International applicants who have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a college, university, or other institution in any of the following countries are not required to take the TOEFL or IELTS.
Application Process for the Funded PhD in Food Science and Bioinformatics
If interested, mail your resume or curriculum vitae (CV) to Dr Yi Zhang.
However, a formal application must be submitted through the Penn State Graduate School portal by the December 2025 deadline.
About Dr. Yi Zhang
Dr. Yi Zhang is an Assistant Professor who has expertise in food macromolecules, enzymology and bioinformatics. She does research on biocatalysis, biosynthesis and byproduct valorisation as a way of promoting sustainable food systems.
Why This PhD Opportunity is Unique
Students enrolled in Penn State in the Department of Food Science will:
- Complete global education in enzymology and bioinformatics of proteins.
- Make a difference in food quality, nutrition, and sustainability research.
- Work on interdisciplinary teams in the life sciences, computation and engineering.
- Develop a bridge between basic research and the industry.
Deadline and contact Information
Application Deadline: December 2025 (Starting in Fall 2026)
For inquiries, contact Dr. Yi Zhang or visit the official website