Muhammad Tuseef

"Turning agro-food waste into wellness: Innovating with nature's leftovers.”

My doctoral research project is “Valorization of Processing Residues from the Agrifood Industry to Obtain High-Value Healthy Extracts,” The research aims to develop sustainable methods for extracting bioactive compounds from agricultural and food processing residues, promoting waste reduction and transforming waste into valuable resources.

In the extraction, I will utilize and optimize environmentally friendly techniques like microwave-assisted extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction, using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NaDES), to enhance safety and sustainability of waste valorization process.

Overall, project involves optimization of extraction process, chemical characterization, and biological activity assessment of extracts to maximize yield and efficacy, promoting sustainable food residue valorization, waste management, and potential health benefits.

How my position is funded

My position is funded by the Ministry of University and Research under the PNRR, D.M. 118/2023, M4C1-INV.3.4, 'Digital and Environmental Transitions.'

My motivations

My decision to pursue a PhD was motivated by my desire to contribute to the perspective of circular economy and utilizing agro-food waste for health related applications and to respond to the increasing demand for sustainable solutions in the management of agro-food waste. It is quite inspiring to have the chance to work on project related to bioactive compounds extraction while simultaneously improving environmental sustainability and contributing towards circular economy. After completing my PhD, I have plan to work in an industrial research where I can contribute to create health-enhancing products such as nutraceuticals, functional foods, and natural supplements by utilizing agro food waste.

A day in a PhD student’s life

A major part of my everyday PhD work involves conducting laboratory experiments to evaluate and optimize extraction procedures for a range of agro-food wastes. Mornings are devoted to preparing samples and carrying out a variety of experimental tasks. Working on reports that summarize the findings, as well as analyzing data and interpreting conclusions are the main tasks of the afternoon. Together with this, I work closely with my research team, meeting often to review developments, resolve problems, and discuss ideas. Evenings are frequently devoted to carefully organizing new experiments, examining the most recent scientific literature.

My events

Carlucci, V., Faraone, I., Russo, D., Candido, V., Tuseef, M. and Milella, L., 2024. Phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity of four varieties of Solanum lycopersicum L. as tools preserving biodiversity. Abstract in: 119th SBI Teramo Congress, Teramo, Italy.