Are you passionate about biotechnology, sustainability, and microbial science? The Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology (CMET) at Ghent University is offering a 6-month research internship focused on bio-based plastics production using mixed microbial communities!
This internship is a unique opportunity for students who want to combine hands-on laboratory work with cutting-edge research on biodegradable plastics and circular biotechnology.
Curious how to craft a strong application for research internships? Read this: Strong application tips
🎯 Project Description
Today, most plastics are derived from petrochemical resources — but their use is increasingly questioned due to environmental concerns and supply chain instability. A sustainable alternative is the production of bio-based and biodegradable plastics using microorganisms, which can convert organic waste into high-value polymers under controlled conditions.
This project focuses on the production of medium-chain-length polyhydroxyalkanoates (mcl-PHAs), a class of biodegradable elastomeric plastics. The goal is to investigate how mixed microbial communities can be optimized for efficient mcl-PHA production.
Key operational parameters such as feedstock composition, feeding regime, pH, and temperature will be systematically evaluated in lab-scale bioreactor experiments.
📚 Your Tasks
🔬 Design, set-up, and operation of different sequencing batch reactors for mcl-PHA production
📊 Data processing and reporting to evaluate process performance
🧫 Quality characterization of the produced mcl-PHA
💼 What You'll Gain
🧪 Hands-on experience in bioprocess engineering and microbial fermentation
🌱 Exposure to sustainable biotechnology and circular economy research
🎓 Work within a leading European research center at Ghent University
📈 Skills in bioreactor operation, data analysis, and polymer characterization
🤝 Mentorship from experienced researchers in microbial ecology
📌 Requirements
✅ MSc or Bachelor student in biotechnology or related field
✅ Registered at a European institution and eligible for Erasmus+ agreements
✅ Aptitude and interest for practical laboratory and analytical work
✅ A motivated and curious student with a hands-on mentality
✅ Fluent in English (speaking, writing, and communication)
💰 Compensation
This is an unpaid research internship. Own funding is required (e.g. Erasmus+ grant).
Activity Details
Location: Ghent, Belgium Duration: 6 months (1 September 2026 — 1 March 2027), extendable up to 9 monthsCommitment: Full-time Field: Biotechnology / Bioprocess Engineering
Deadline
31 May 2026
How to Apply
Send a motivation letter (max. 1 page) and CV (max. 2 pages) to Simon Vandenberghe:
