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Eric Fournelle, a ’92 HAFA alum and Shannon Fawns, Development Manager, OAC, visited BDDC and toured the facility.  The tour was led by Dr. Milka Popov, Project Manager, and Malik Hassan, PhD student at BDDC. Eric Fournelle, a ’92 HAFA alum and Shannon Fawns, Development Manager, OAC, visited BDDC and toured the facility.  The tour was led by Dr. Milka Popov, Project Manager, and Malik Hassan, PhD student at BDDC. ...

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Professor Amar Mohanty was an invited panelist in the panel session on the topic "Thermal Runaway – Detection, Containment and Mitigation" in the Plastics in Electric & Autonomous Vehicles Conference(SPE EAV 2024) conference held in Troy, Michigan, April 8 - 10 2024 To View the Conference ProgramProfessor Amar Mohanty was an invited panelist in the panel session on the topic "Thermal Runaway – Detection, Containment and Mitigation" in the Plastics in Electric & Autonomous Vehicles Conference(SPE EAV 2024) conference held in Troy, Michigan, April 8 - 10 2024 To View the Conference Program...

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Students from the BDDC presented posters at the Guelph Food Engineering Conference (GFEC) held at the University of Guelph on April 5th, 2024. BDDC Students participated in the undergraduate and the Ph.D. CategoryPoster Presentations Include:Vo Thy Phuong Le's Poster Presentation was awarded 2nd Place in the Undergraduate Category.  Aarsha Surrendren's poster presentation was awarded 3rd Place in the Ph.D. Category.  "Home-compostable blends of Bio-Poly(Butylene Succinate) and Bio-Poly(Butylene Succinate-Co-Adipate): Compatibilization and Performance Evaluation" Authors: Le, V.T.P.,Nath, D.,Pesaranhajiabbas, E.,Wang, T.,Mohanty, A. K.& Misra, M. Presented by: Vo Thy Phuong Le  "Thermoplastic starch blend for packaging film applications:a study on the effect of initiator and cross-linker on prepared blend system". Authors: Surrendren, A., Lim, L.,Xu, Q.,Mohanty, A. K.& Misra, M. Presented by: Aarsha Surrendren   "Truly Green composites from Bacterial Bioplastics and Renewable Cellulose Fibre: Effect on Compatibilizer on Performance" Authors: Nath, D.,Rodriguez-Uribe, A.,Mohanty, A. K.& Misra, M. Presented by: Debarshi Nath  "Innovative Home Compostable Flexible Packaging: Engineered High Performance Trilayer Blown Film Structures". Authors: Pesaranhajiabbas, E.,Mohanty, A. K.& Misra, M. Presented by: Ehsan Pesaranhajiabbas  "Edible coating as a postharvest management strategy for shelf-life extension of stone fruits". Authors: Krishnan, R.,Misra, M.,Subramanian, J. & Mohanty, A. K. Presented by: Reshma Krishnan  "Eco-Friendly Wax Coatings For Paper Packaging: Effects of Coating on Mechanical and Barrier Properties". Authors: Jahangiri, F.,Pal, A. K.,Mohanty, A. K.,Clemmer, R.,Gregori, S. & Misra, M. Presented by: Fatemeh Jahangiriii...

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The Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre (BDDC) recently participated in the Project SOY Plus competition, this year's theme being “Circular Economy.” Undergraduates, graduates, and diploma-level students competed to showcase their ideas and products that aim to change the way people produce, consume, and recycle towards a sustainable future.Two teams from the BDDC participated in this competition. Undergraduate team: Hugh MacFarlane, Zavier Blackman, Sarah Simoes, and Mary. Project title: "The Knot no More - Sustainable Bin Brush"Graduate team; Malik Hassan, Debarshi Nath, Reshma Krishnan, and Blessing Itabana. Project title: "Green Helmet: Protective Lives, Preserving Earth”For More Information: Click Here   ...

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BDDC researchers received funding from the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) through the Ontario Research Fund (ORF) Round 11.There are two funded projects:Professor Amar K Mohanty received $2 million funding to develop advanced flameproof and lighter sustainable materials using waste streams from automotive industry and lignin from pulp processing. The research team includes Drs. Manjusri Misra, Stefano Gregori and Abdallah Elsayed both in U of G's School of Engineering as well as researchers from McMaster University (Devashish Pujari), University of Toronto (Patrick Lee) and Western University (Andrew N. Hrymak).Professor Manjusri Misra, has received $1 million to develop and commercialize home compostable K-cup coffee capsules, a product not currently available in North America. The research team includes Dr. Mohanty and Dr. Brandon Gilroyed, School of Environmental Sciences within OAC, researchers from McMaster University (Devashish Pujari) and collaborators from industry, government and not-for-profit sectors.MCU announcement - Ontario Investing More than $270 Million To Support New Innovations and Discoveries | Ontario NewsroomU of G News linkkk...

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The Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre trainees participated in the 100th College Royal, as part of the Crop Science exhibit, at the University of Guelph on March 16th and 17th, 2024.The interactive exhibit featured the bioproducts display with samples biodegradable materials, automotive products and a 3D printing demo.There were over 3,500 visitors at the exhibit. 100th College Royal booklet can be found here.    ...

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A new study published in Nature Reviews Methods Primers, titled "Biocarbon Materials" discusses the potential of biocarbon materials, derived from renewable sources, in environmental sustainability and energy solutions. This review article explores their applications in various sectors and the benefits they offer, such as reducing waste and carbon footprint.Mohanty, A. K., Vivekanandhan, S., Das, O., M, R. M. L., Klinghoffer, N. B., Nzihou, A., & Misra, M. (2024)."Biocarbon materials." Nat Rev Methods Primers 4, 19 (2024). To Read the Article: Click Here    ...

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Dr. Manjusri Misra's study, "Hop natural fiber-reinforced poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA) biodegradable plastics: effect of fiber length on the performance of biocomposites" has been featured in a special collection for International Women’s Day 2024, to celebrate the contributions of women to materials science.The Research Paper was published in Material Advances 2023, 4 ,1502-1514. """...

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POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW POSITIONS AVAILABLE Current Availability: 6 PositionsLocation: University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, CanadaExpected Start Date: May 1, 2024 / Till Positions AvailableDegree Requirements: PhD degree in the field of Engineering and Science (polymer engineering, chemistry, materials) or a related disciplineSpecific Requirements: 1) Must have extensive experience in polymer processing through melt extrusion and the characterization of their properties; 2) Knowledge and a strong publication record in polymer science and engineering, polymer chemistry and synthesis, and melt-processed bioplastics and composites is required; and 3) Knowledge in biobased materials such as biopolymers, polymer blends, natural fibres, and biocomposites are required. Contract Duration: One year, with possible extension for an additional yearSalary: CAD $45,000 - $47,000 per annum, plus benefitsPostdoctoral OpportunitiesMulti-Layer Polymer Films & Packaging via Melt Processing with Property Analysis for Biopolymer Blends, and Biocomposites (Cast, Blown, and Melt Extrusion).  Positions Available: 2(Email Heading: Films & Packaging)The focus for this position is to create formulations of biopolymer blends, biocomposites, hybrid composites, and nanobiocomposites for multi-layer films and packaging via MELT processing (Cast, Blown, and Melt Extrusion) for high barrier properties. The selected candidates will work on formulating materials via melt processing and reactive extrusion techniques for multi-layer films and packaging, where they will study the processing, barrier properties, and structure-property relationship. Candidate must have experience with the cast and blown film processing and their characterization.Polymer Blends and Composites (Biobased Materials, Biobased Composites, Reactive Extrusion, Injection Moulding and Compression Moulding) Positions Available: 2(Email Heading: Blends & Composites)The focus for this position is to develop formulations of biopolymer blends, biocomposites, hybrid composites, and nanobiocomposites. The selected candidate will work on melt processing and reactive extrusion techniques, where they will study the processing, structure and property relationship. The formulated materials will be studied for their processing, structure and property relationships.Pyrolysis of Various Biomass and their Characterization for Hybrid Biocomposite ApplicationsPositions Available: 2 (Email Heading: Biocarbon Composites)The focus for this position is to fabricate biocarbon from various biomass sources through a pyrolysis process. After the fabrication, characterization, and analysis of the fabricated biocarbon, it will be used to create various polymer-based biocomposite formulations. Biocomposite formulations will be fabricated through melt processing including extrusion techniques, injection moulding and/or compression moulding. The formulated materials will be studied for their processing, structure and property relationships. Candidates should have hands-on experience with pyrolysis equipment.How to ApplyApplication to the BDDC Selection CommitteePlease send your application package to bddcjobs@uoguelph.ca. Your application package must contain the below mentioned documents and labelled accordingly:COVER LETTER(File Name: Last Name_Cover Letter_Date)Outline qualifications for the specific position applied (i.e. Postdoc)Indicate the earliest date of availability, if selected TWO-PAGE SUMMARY(File  Name: Last Name_Summary_Date)Outline your interest and motivation to work in the Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre (BDDC). Include how your educational and work background will help you to succeed on the topics researched at BDDC (information can be found on the website https://bioproductscentre.com/ ). How do you plan to learn about the aspects of the BDDC research you don't know. CV (CURRICULUM VITAE) [Organized Reverse Chronologically – Most Recent to Oldest] (File Name: Last Name_CV_Date):Education & Work Experience - Include high school information (Include: start and end date - MONTH and YEAR)Thesis title of your degree(s) (if applicable)Name of adviser for your degree(s) (if applicable)Percent average or GPA (if including GPA please provide what it is out of i.e. 4.36/5.0)Summary of time off taken between degrees starting from high schoolList of courses during your education most relevant to this position and grades obtained for each courseEnglish Language Proficiency results and sub-category breakdown (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) Include date or expected date of Exam (Exams must have been taken within the last 2 years)List of your publications organized by degree If you are NOT the First Author indicate your contributions If you have any submitted manuscripts, please include your email confirmation from the journal) List of your conference presentationsContact information for three references YOUR SCIENTIFIC PUBLICATION(S) (File Name: Last Name_Publication#_Date) *Please provide each publication as a separate file in PDF formatPublication Number(s) should correspond with the list number in your CVEmail Subject Line: Postdoctoral Fellow Position at BDDC + Indicate position above (1, 2, 3)**Separate applications are required if applying to multiple positions**The research component of the Postdoctoral Fellow position will be conducted within the Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre (BDDC), University of Guelph. The candidate will have the opportunity to work with senior scientists from different areas (materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, polymer chemistry, packaging and plant agriculture) and will have the chance to work collaboratively with industrial partners.At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to the further diversification of our Institution.If you have any questions, please contact bddcjobs@uoguelph.ca.Supervised by:Professor Amar Mohantyhttps://www.bioproductscentre.com/director Professor Manjusri Misrawww.uoguelph.ca/engineering/people/manjusri-misra-phd We thank all applicants who apply, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted......

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Funded Graduate Opportunities - M.Sc. in Plant Agriculture*This graduate opportunity is for graduate students pursuing a degree in Plant Agriculture for the following research areas:Bioplastics and Biobased PolymersBiocomposites (Natural Fibre Composites) and Polymer BlendsGreen Composites including Recyclability, Durability and Biodegradability StudiesBiobased Nanocomposites and Nanoblends3D Printing of Bioplastics and BiocompositesBiomass and Biomaterials SustainabilityBiomedical Applications for Bioplastics and BiocompositesValue-added Biobased Materials from the Coproducts/Byproducts of Biofuel IndustriesBiodegradability (Compostability)For entry in the M.Sc. program, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in ScienceIf your first language is not English, you will be required to submit the results of a standardized language test. Please see the chart for acceptable tests and required scores on the graduate studies website. Please copy and paste the weblink found below:Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the positions are filled.How to ApplyApplication to the BDDC Selection CommitteePlease send your application package to bddcjobs@uoguelph.ca. Your application package must contain the below mentioned documents and labelled accordingly:COVER LETTER(File Name: Last Name_Cover Letter_Date):Outline qualifications for the specific position applied (i.e. M.Sc. Student)Indicate the earliest date of availability, if selected TWO-PAGE SUMMARY(File  Name: Last Name_Summary_Date):Outline your interest and motivation to work in the Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre (BDDC). Include how your educational and work background will help you to succeed on the topics researched at BDDC (information can be found on the website https://bioproductscentre.com/ ). How do you plan to learn about the aspects of the BDDC research you don't know. CV (CURRICULUM VITAE) [Organized Reverse Chronologically – Most Recent to Oldest] (File Name: Last Name_CV_Date): Education & Work Experience - Include high school information (Include: start and end date - MONTH and YEAR)Thesis title of your degree(s) (if applicable)Name of adviser for your degree(s) (if applicable)Percent average or GPA (if including GPA please provide what it is out of i.e. 4.36/5.0)Summary of time off taken between degrees starting from high schoolList of courses during your education most relevant to this position and grades obtained for each courseEnglish Language Proficiency results and sub-category breakdown (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) Include date or expected date of Exam (Exams must have been taken within the last 2 years)List of your publications organized by degree  If you are NOT the First Author indicate your contributions If you have any submitted manuscripts, please include your email confirmation from the journal) List of your conference presentationsContact information for three references  YOUR SCIENTIFIC PUBLICATION(S) (File Name: Last Name_Publication#_Date):*Please provide each publication as a separate file in PDF formatPublication Number(s) should correspond with the list number in your CVThe research component of the graduate student position will be conducted within the Bioproducts Discovery and Development Centre (BDDC), University of Guelph. The candidate will have the opportunity to work with senior scientists from different areas (materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, polymer chemistry, packaging, and plant agriculture) and will have the chance to work collaboratively with industrial partners.At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to the further diversification of our Institution. If you have any questions, please contact bddcjobs@uoguelph.ca.Supervised by: Professor Amar Mohantyhttps://www.bioproductscentre.com/director Professor Manjusri Misrawww.uoguelph.ca/engineering/people/manjusri-misra-phdWe thank all applicants who apply, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted......

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