Fully Funded PhD Position in From waste to resource: opportunities, challenges and economic viability of biorefineries in South Africa
Summary of PhD Program:
The aim of this PhD project is to investigate the economic viability of bioethanol production in South Africa using local invasive species and waste materials. Building up from previous studies and analyses reported in the literature and done within our groups, the successful candidate will carry out an extensive review of various business models, in particular those developed in the biorefinery industry in Brazil, with a focus on local distribution and benefits for the local communities. Experiments to assess glucose yields using a variety of pre-treatment methods, enzymatic cocktails and reaction conditions will also be carried out over the course of the project to support the development of a potential business model.
