The Position
(This position is closed)
OPUS Cactus, an innovative Dutch company, is revolutionizing agriculture and bio-economy in semi-arid regions worldwide by establishing Opuntia-based agroecosystems. Our mission is to harness the potential of this versatile plant for sustainable food, feed, and energy production. We are currently seeking passionate R&D / Laboratory interns to join our groundbreaking team. As our R&D Laboratory Interns, you’ll have the opportunity to work on one or more of our cutting-edge research areas:
Research Focus Areas:
- Bioenergy: Conduct laboratory experiments on biogas production from Opuntia cactus biomass, optimize anaerobic digestion parameters, and analyze biogas yield and composition
- Alternative Microbial Protein: Perform bioreactor fermentations using Opuntia cactus as substrate for microbial protein production and optimize fermentation parameters for protein enrichment
- In-vitro Plant Tissue Culture: Micropropagation and breeding for new high-yielding, frost- and pest-resistant Opuntia cultivars through tissue culture techniques
Your responsibilities will include:
- Conducting laboratory experiments across assigned research areas
- Supporting the development of efficient bioreactor configurations
- Analyzing microbial communities and fermentation processes
- Performing sterile tissue culture techniques for plant propagation
- Collecting and analyzing experimental data
- Collaborating with our R&D team on innovative biotechnology solutions
- Be based out of our research laboratory on Zernike Campus Groningen
- Receive a monthly remuneration of 250 euros
Ideal candidates should have:
- Current enrollment in Biotechnology, Environmental Engineering, Plant Sciences, Microbiology, Food Technology, or related degree programs
- Basic understanding of fermentation processes and/or plant tissue culture techniques
- Interest in renewable energy, alternative protein sources, and sustainable agriculture
- Laboratory experience is a plus (preferably with bioreactors, fermentation systems, or tissue culture)
- Analytical mindset with careful attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (Dutch is a plus)
- Creativity, adaptability, and enthusiasm for learning about cutting-edge biotechnology applications