Summer Student: Microbiology/ Biochemistry

Scion specialises in research, science and technology development for the forestry industry, wood products and wood-derived materials. We lead new technology development for renewables, bioproducts and energy and the establishment of a broader-based circular bioeconomy.

Scion hosts a number of summer students, each with differing specialities, from tertiary institutes across New Zealand at both our Rotorua and Christchurch Campus. The programme involves a student completing a 12-week, full-time, research project under the direction of Scion supervisors (allowing time for holidays over the Christmas and New Year). Students are able to gain hands on, paid, work experience in the field of which they are studying, where they get to work shoulder to shoulder with Scion's internationally recognised staff.

We are seeking a motivated student to work on Trash to Treasure: Turning Waste into Bioplastic Gold

**The primary objective of the work/project**:
Assess the suitability of select waste streams as feedstocks to produce bioplastics through bacterial fermentation.

**Research Abstract**:
Bioplastics are a fantastic replacement to the petroleum-based plastics that dominate the market, our landfills and our oceans. We make them by fermenting special bacteria which naturally convert carbon sources like sugar into bioplastic. These bioplastics are fully biodegradable and will disappear in your garden or the ocean in a matter of weeks.

But if they are so great, why are they not everywhere ?

The problem is money. Bioplastics are more expensive to make than petroleum plastics, making it hard to dominate the market. A big part of the production cost is finding suitable carbon sources to feed the bacteria. Find a cheaper way to feed the bacterial fermentations and we'll start shifting the tide on the world's petroleum plastic issue.

**What you will do**:
You will be analysing two waste streams and determining how suitable are as a fermentation feedstock for bioplastic making bacteria.

This involves:

- Reading related literature.
- Submitting samples for chemical analysis and analysing results.
- Developing bacterial growth experimental plans.
- Executing experiments.
- Analysing more results.
- Making future recommendations based on results.

You will have the opportunity to develop and display a range of technical and soft skills necessary for a successful career in science.

**Qualifications, skills and attributes needed**:
BSc having just completed your 2nd or 3rd year.

Ideally with a major in microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology or similar.

You will require an awareness of working in PC2 lab conditions and proven skills in:

- Aseptic technique
- Communication
- Record keeping
- Critical thinking
- Time management

Application Close Date: 6 September 2024

Job Details
- Crown research institute
Scion- Reference #
56230- Posted on
19 Aug 2024- Closes on- Location(s)
Rotorua- Expertise
Chemistry- Job level(s)
Student- Work type(s)
Fixed Term less than 6 months- More details (document)
Microbiology_Biochemistry Summer Student PD 2024.pdf