PAID INDUSTRIAL INTERNSHIP – R&D IN FOREST BIOTECHNOLOGY

With possibility of integration with Bachelor’s or Master’s Thesis

About the Project

Climate change is increasing the stress experienced by young trees (seedlings) after transplantation from forest nurseries to the field, reducing the success of reforestation efforts. A promising strategy to mitigate this issue is the use of ectomycorrhizal fungi, which form a symbiotic relationship with tree roots, enhancing stress resistance and adaptation to new environments. To make this solution effective and scalable, it is essential to develop high-quality inoculants through optimized and economically viable processes. In this context, we are looking for motivated students to contribute to the development of innovative biotechnological solutions within a company environment.

Project objectives

• Develop cultivation methods for ectomycorrhizal fungi in bioreactors.
• Optimize production and formulation processes to obtain high-quality inoculants.
• Apply inoculants in forest nurseries and evaluate their impact on tree growth and survival (optional).

What will you learn?

• Microbial cultivation in bioreactors and optimization of growth parameters.
• Development of microbial formulations (liquid, solid, and encapsulation).
• Inoculation techniques in forest nurseries and assessment of plant growth and physiological parameters.
• Advanced microbiology and analytical techniques.

Conditions

• Duration: minimum 6 months
• Full-time position (38.5 h/week).
• Compensation: €500/month + 3 meals/week
• Possibility to combine with other scholarships
• Opportunity for full-time employment after the internship.
• Flexible start date

Candidate profile

• Final-year Bachelor’s or Master’s students in relevant fields (forestry, biotechnology…).
• Minimum English level: B2.
• Strong interest in applied research and sustainability.

Contact

Dr. Alejandro del Barrio Duque

alejandro.delbarrio@evologic.at