Optimising the methane yield for energy production from bio-digestion using dairy waste
An opportunity for a Doctoral student to undertake research on dairy waste biodigestion, optimising microbes and processes to boost methane yields and support energy generation at scale.
Overview
Fonterra plans to build large-scale biodigesters to convert dairy waste into value-added products and use the methane produced to generate energy. In advance of building the large-scale facilities, a pilot-scale biodigester has been installed at the Darfield site to develop the processes. Currently, the gas produced by this biodigester has not been of sufficient concentration to be cost effective for use for energy production.
This PhD project will investigate how to optimise the current waste stream and biodigester process to maximise the methane usable for energy production. The PhD will investigate the composition of the input material, as well as the microbial communities in the biodigestion process that enhance methane concentration. This will be informed using methane producing microbes and will use a bench-top microbiodigester to test combinations of microbes and feedstock and then scaled to the pilot biodigester. Parameters will be optimised (e.g. micronutrients, temperature, pH, C:N ratio of input material) for both microbial inoculants and feedstock utilisation. The economics of power generation from biodigester produced gas will also be determined.
The project comprises interlinked research objectives:
- Identify suitable methane-producing microbes
- Simulate biogas production processes with a laboratory-scale instrument designed to replicate continuously fed anaerobic fermentation processes. The processes will be based on the specific Fonterra waste streams.
- Scale the process to pilot scale utilising the Lincoln University/Ecogas pilot-scale biodigester (currently located at Fonterra Darfield) to up-scale objective 2 to a fully PLC-controlled anaerobic digester.
- Model the scale-up of the processes to simulate a large-scale facility
The outcome of this PhD will support the maximisation of the potential of the new large-scale biodigestion facilities for on-site power production.
The student will be guided by expertise in dairy waste streams and the current biodigester utilisation by Fonterra staff, while Lincoln University and Lincoln Agritech provide expertise in rumen microbiology, energy conversion and biodigester inputs and outputs (e.g. fertilisers and other products).
Value
The scholarship includes an annual tax-free stipend of $35,501 p.a. (paid in fortnightly instalments) plus tuition fees, for three years.
Closing date
19 January 2026
Selection criteria
The student must meet the entry requirements for a doctoral programme at Lincoln University without any bridging programmes required.
Availability
The Applied Doctorates Scheme invites applications from prospective students—both domestic and international—to be a part of the inaugural cohort. This is a unique opportunity to undertake doctoral study that is deeply embedded in real-world challenges and sector partnerships.
Further information and how to apply
For further information, conditions, and to apply for this project please first read the guidance document, and then complete the application form on the Applied Doctorates Scheme website: