Fermented plant protein peptides in development of functional elderly milk formulations

By August 1st, 2025

Project overview

Project title

Fermented plant protein peptides in development of functional elderly milk formulations

Project description

This project explores using fermented plant protein peptides in milk formulas for the elderly with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The expected outcome is to ferment plant protein peptides, analyse their bioactive compounds, and assess their in vitro bioactivities. The project aims to develop nutritious, easily digestible, novel dairy formulas, potentially reducing the burden of age-related health concerns on individuals and healthcare systems.

Supervisory team

University

Name of university supervisorZhongxiang Fang
Pangzhen Zhang
Name of universityUniversity of Melbourne
Email addresszhongxiang.fang@unimelb.edu.au pangzhen.zhang@unimelb.edu.au
FacultyFaculty of Science

CSIRO

Name of CSIRO supervisorNetsanet Shiferaw
Danyang Ying
Email addressnetsanet.shiferawterefe@csiro.au
danyang.ying@csiro.au
CSIRO Research UnitAgriculture and Food

Industry

Name of industry supervisorAllen Teng
Name of business/organisationNutrimores Pty Ltd
Email addressallen.teng@nutrimores.com

Further details

Primary location of studentUniversity of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Parkville VIC 3010, Australia
Industry engagement component locationBlue Lake Dairy Group Pty Ltd (Nutrimores Pty Ltd sister company), 31203 Princes Highway, Tantanoola SA 5280, Australia
Other locationsCSIRO Werribee, 671 Sneydes Road, Werribee VIC 3030, Australia
Ideal student skillsetEssential skillsets:

MSc or equivalent in Food Science, Nutrition, Biochemistry, or related field.     

Background in protein chemistry and fermentation processes.               

Experience with peptide analysis techniques (e.g., HPLC, mass spectrometry).

Proficiency in statistical analysis and experimental design.           

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.  

Desirable skillsets:

Experience with cell culture techniques.

Knowledge of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory assay and their mechanisms.

Knowledge of elderly nutrition and dietary requirements.

Experience with sensory evaluation of food products.

Previous research experience in food product development.
Application close dateOpen until position filled
ApplyContact Zhongxiang Fang