Master’s Thesis Internship

Department:
- Proteins4Singapore- Posted Date:
- 26 September 2024- Closing Date:
- Open until filled- Hours:
- Full Time- Duration:
- Fixed term**About TUMCREATE**

TUMCREATE is a multidisciplinary research platform of the Technical University Munich (TUM) at the Singapore Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE). We are joining forces with universities, public agencies, and industry for the advancement of future technologies.

Our large-scale Food Science ‘Proteins4Singapore’ program is funded by Singapore’s National Research Foundation (NRF). The Technical University Munich (TUM) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) join forces with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and A*STAR’s Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI) to research plant-based proteins.

**Project Title**:
Screening of food-grade enzymes for the generation of functional hydrolysates from alternative protein sources.

**Abstract**:
The project Proteins4Singapore aims to address Singapore's aspiration to utilize protein-rich raw materials from indoor cultivation (soybeans and microalgae) to produce alternative food products.

In this 6-month Master’s thesis project, the focus will be on obtaining protein fractions from soybean and microalgae biomass and the generation of functional peptides. General tools for protein analysis such as SDS-PAGE and photometric will be used for characterization of the protein fractions. Further, the fractions will undergo proteolysis to generate hydrolysates using a selection of food-grad enzymes. Different reaction conditions will be compared by characterising the generated peptides and the degree of protein hydrolysis. Promising conditions may be scaled in a bioreactor system. Further, the flavour profiles of the different hydrolysates will be analysed to evaluate their suitability for the formulation in functional foods.

**Applied Methods**:
High Pressure Homogenization, Microfiltration, Protein Hydrolysis, photometry, SDS PAGE, Chromatography.

**Responsibilities**:
Laboratory Work and Experimentation:

- Conduct hands-on experiments related to microalgae processing, protein extraction, and separation techniques.
- Collaborate with the research team to optimize protocols and methodologies.
- Assist in developing and refining scalable processes for protein extraction.
- Investigate factors affecting efficiency, yield, and cost-effectiveness.

Data Collection and Analysis:

- Analyse results using appropriate statistical tools and software.
- Summarize findings from scientific literature related to microalgae processing and protein extraction.
- Contribute insights from your research to project reports and your master’s thesis.

Collaboration and Communication:

- Present your research findings during team meetings.
- Actively participate in discussions with fellow researchers, and project leads.

**Job Requirements/Competencies**:
Educational Background:

- Currently enrolled in a Master’s program in fields such as Biotechnology, Bio-/Chemical Engineering, MINT (Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Sciences, Technology) or related areas.
- Possess a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields, including Applied Sciences, Food Science, Biotechnology, Chemistry or related areas.

Experience and Attitude:

- Laboratory experience is beneficial for this position.
- A strong willingness to learn, contribute, and work independently is equally important.

Essential Skills:

- Attention to Detail: Precise data collection and adherence to protocols.
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret experimental results and troubleshoot.
- Teamwork: Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

We encourage curiosity, creativity, and a passion for scientific exploration.

**What TUM CREATE offers you**:

- Our international team and different work structures provide a refreshing and enriching environment that will be appealing.
- Invaluable experience and the potential to contribute to a publication.
- Multicultural, vibrant, modern and positive working environment in Singapore.
- Campus-sited office location with a host of facilities.
- In-building perks including gym, game room and coffee room.

**Applications**: