Semhar Ghirmai

PhD project title: Novel solutions to a bloody problem preventing full utilization of fish

In my research I study the impact of blood on lipid oxidation in fish and develop new strategies to minimize color changes of the fish filet and the deterioration of the valuable n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, or “omega-3”. Hemoglobin is a protein found in the red blood cells and is a problematic compound as it is a strong lipid pro-oxidant.

Through national and international collaborations with experts within food science, zoophysiology, hematology, and the fish industries her aim is to find innovative solutions to improve the quality of fresh fish. This will stimulate a sustainable handling of marine resources and minimize food loss. Thereby, we also target several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

Supervisors

Main supervisor

• Ingrid Undeland

Co-supervisors

• Michael Axelssonb
• Haizhou Wua

Location

Chalmers University of Technology

I am from Eritrea, a beautiful country located in the horn of Africa with long coastline along the Red Sea. I hold a MSc in Biotechnology Engineering from LTH, Lund University. I decided to pursue doctoral studies to expand my knowledge about the oxidative effects of hemoglobin and how it affects fish quality. I appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of my research, and that my research stimulates sustainable production of seafood through better utilization of fish raw materials.