Practical Semester in biology/plant science / Master Thesis / Student Assistant – nutrient uptake by fine roots

Your Job:

Fine root structures are inexpensive for plants in terms of metabolism and biomass (allocated carbon and nutrients), but at the same time they contribute a large proportion of nutrient uptake. As part of a master thesis, root traits are to be investigated under different nutrient treatments. Invasive and non-invasive phenotyping will be used for the development of new biological insights. The focus is on conducting experiments in rhizotrons or gnotobiotic EcoFAB rhizosphere boxes, microscopic examination of roots, data collection, and statistical evaluation. In addition to the experimental tasks, the work could also involve modeling if there is interest.
You can write your master thesis on the topic.

Your Profile:

• Proven hands-on experience in laboratory work (internships, courses)
  
• Bachelor’s degree (university or university of applied sciences) in Biology, Biotechnology, Agriculture or in another relevant field
  
• Enrolled in a master’s program at a European university or university of applied sciences
  
• Ability to work cleanly and precisely
  
• Very good organizational skills (especially in the laboratory)
  
• Good knowledge of plant biology and molecular biology
  
• Good knowledge of written and spoken English
  
• Highly motivated and able to work in a team
  

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• A topic as part of a master thesis in which you will provide new scientific insights with social relevance.
  
• A very good working atmosphere in a highly motivated group “Root Dynamics” at the Institute of Plant Sciences, one of the leading institutes for plant phenotyping
  
• We will pay you a salary for the internship and plan the period and focus with you at an early stage
  
• The position is initially limited to 3-6 months
  
• Excellent scientific and technical infrastructure in one of the largest research institutions in Europe
  
• An international network of experts
  
• Continuous professional support
  

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

Further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality