Research Project on Beneficial Properties of the Early Life Microbiota

What it is about

You work practically in a research project on early gut microbiota and learn how certain commensal microbes, in particular Escherichia coli, can influence mucosal immunity. In the end you will independently plan hypothesis-driven experiments, perform them in the lab, and present your results in writing and orally in a scientific manner.

What you will be able to do

• Independent planning and execution of a laboratory project
• Application of classical and modern microbiome/microbiology methods (wet and dry lab)
• Development and optimization of methods and assays
• Isolation and characterization of microbes
• Analysis and interpretation of experimental data
• Scientific writing (report in the format of a research paper)
• Oral presentation of scientific results

What the module consists of

• Praktikum / LaborarbeitCarrying out the experimental work in the research lab; accounts for 40% of the assessment
• Selbstständiges ProjektDevelopment of a hypothesis-driven question and independent work within the project
• Bericht (Schriftliche Abgabe)Elaboration of results in the format of a scientific research paper; accounts for 50% of the assessment
• Präsentation15-minute presentation plus 5 minutes of questions; accounts for 10% of the assessment

Teaching method

• Einführung und Training im LaborImparting fundamental techniques by a lab team member
• Individuelle Laborarbeit und TeamarbeitPractical application, problem solving and experimental work
• Problemorientiertes Arbeiten und DatenanalysePromotes experimental design, analysis and scientific thinking