We are Austria’s largest research and technology organisation and an international player in applied research for innovative infrastructure solutions. This makes us a powerful development partner for industry and a top employer in the scientific community. Our Center for Health & Bioresources in Tulln (in immediate vicinity to Vienna) invites applications for a:

Master Thesis „Investigation of biocontrol applications with Trichoderma spp.“

Starting date: September 2020

IMAGINE

• In their natural habitat, fungi constantly face the challenge to outcompete other organisms in complex ecosystems. Therefore, they developed powerful enzyme systems for degradation of substrate, which provide for fast growth and efficient colonization of their environment. However, Trichoderma spp are well known as potent plant symbionts and are hence applied as biocontrol agents to fight plant diseases.
• One of the main goals of this master thesis is to explore mechanisms and efficiency of plant protection by Trichoderma.

ENGAGE

• As part of our international multidisciplinary team, you will work on a high-level research project aimed at elucidation of perspectives for application in industrial fermentations.
• We will be investigating efficient biocontrol strains and their physiological properties. Additionally, we analyse the reaction of these strains to pathogenic fungi and to plants by chemical and biological methods.
• Together with our team, you will learn how to perform microbiological and molecular biological analyses including RTqPCR and transformations, plate assays, growth tests as well as secondary metabolite analyses.

ACHIEVE

• Your contribution shall lead to results directly applicable in agriculture.
• You will create synergies among ongoing projects and increase the efficiency by collaboration.
• Your results can contribute to economic viability of biocontrol applications and more sustainable production methods in conventional and organic agriculture.

Your qualifications as an Ingenious Partner:

• Ongoing master’s studies in biotechnology, biology, biochemistry or related fields
• Knowledge in working with microbes
• Experience with molecular biological techniques (PCR, working with nucleic acids)
• Accuracy in laboratory work
• Enthusiasm for scientific work
• Interest to work in a multidisciplinary team and collaborate on different topics
• Good communication skills in English both spoken and written

What to expect:

At least EUR 779,- gross per month for at least 20 hours/week based on the collective agreement. There will be additional company benefits. As a research institution, we are familiar with the supervision and execution of Master theses and we are looking forward to supporting you accordingly!

At AIT, the promotion of women is important to us - that's why we are especially looking forward to applications from female students!

For further information, please contact:

DI Dr. Monika Schmoll, monika.schmoll@ait.ac.at

The starting date for this master thesis is September 2020.

TOMORROW TODAY - WITH YOU?

Please submit your application documents including your CV, cover letter and relevant certificates) online, at: https://jobs.ait.ac.at/Job/128043