The Werner Siemens Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology at the Department of Chemistry at the Technical University of Munich in Garching is looking for an enthusiastic student for the topic:
Screening, Characterization and Biomass Optimization of Cyanobacteria for Metal Adsorption and their Biotechnological Applications
The Werner Siemens Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology focuses on the isolation, characterization, and process-oriented optimization of enzymes and microorganisms for the production of industrial platform chemicals. A key research focus is the cultivation of oil-producing microorganisms and microalgae for the biotechnological utilization of organic raw materials.
Isolation and Identification of Cyanobacterial Strains from environmental samples
Optimization of Growth and Biomass Production of cyanobacteria and other autotrophic microorganisms by adjusting light conditions, temperature, pH, salinity, and media composition
Up-Scaling the cultivation to Bioreactors
Optional: Characterization of growth behavior and analysis of biomass composition
Optional: Investigation of Metal Adsorption by Algal Biomass for applications in metal recovery
To tackle this complex research topic, we are looking for a self-motivated, team-oriented, and well-structured individual with experience in biochemistry, biotechnology, and/or microbiology. Suitable applicants should have laboratory experience in the safe and precise handling of lab equipment as well as in sterile working techniques. Practical experience in the cultivation of microorganisms (preferably cyanobacteria and/or other autotrophic microorganisms) and knowledge of molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing) are advantageous
The opportunity to conduct a bachelor's thesis or research internship in an interdisciplinary research environment
Hands-on experience with various cultivation and analytical techniques for the biotechnological utilization of microorganisms
Insight into modern analytical methods for biomass characterization and metal adsorption
Supervision by experienced scientists and the opportunity to contribute your own ideas and solutions