This summer we launched an exciting new international internship program for Penn State graduate students, co-sponsored by the One Health Microbiome Center at Penn State and our new partners at QIAGEN, an outstanding global provider of molecular testing solutions.
Our first two interns are PhD students Ashley O. (dual title in food science and microbiome sciences), and Jamie Spychalla, (plant pathology and environmental microbiology).
Ashley’s research focuses on fermented food microbiomes, specifically how the microbiome of sourdough bread could improve bread quality and shelf life, potentially mitigating gluten sensitivities and celiac disease through protein modification.
Jamie’s research focuses on developing microbiome-focused management plans to better control major grapevine diseases like Botrytis bunch rot and sour rot, which cause significant economic loss for both wine grape and table grape growers worldwide.
The two intrepid young scientists departed from Penn State’s University Park by plane on June 23rd to kick off their 5-week internship with a trans-Atlantic flight to Germany.
After a warm welcome from their QIAGEN hosts, the pair received their ID badges and a tour of QIAGEN’s global HQ. Then it was time to settle into their summer apartment in the heart of Hilden.
“The entire environment is extremely welcoming and made me feel at home immediately,” enthused Ashley, adding, “Everyone was so kind and just as excited for us to be there as we were.”
Jamie was equally energized by the start to their summer adventure.
“I get my own bench space,” she said, “and it is great to be back in the lab after working these past few months on analyzing data and writing up my PhD projects at Penn State.”
After acclimating to the new time zone and getting the lay of the land, the duo started right in on safety trainings, followed by set up work for their first projects.
“The labs are gorgeous and organized so well,” Ashley said. “The project I am working on is automating and optimizing one of their microbiome assay kits. I have started to learn how to do data analysis and write the specific format for protocols as well.”
“I am looking at the efficacy of DNA nucleases to break down various concentrations of DNA,” added Jamie. “This will help with host DNA depletion process for a kit that is in development.”
Both students were also thrilled to explore the scenery and cuisine of Germany during their first week, and to socialize with their new QIAGEN colleagues.
“A bunch of us eat lunch together, which is really great,” said Jamie, adding, “This past weekend Ashley and I traveled to Cologne and Düsseldorf. It is really fun to be in Germany and people-watch during a time when the EURO 2024 matches are being hosted across Germany.”
“Overall the entire experience has been amazing, said Ashley. “I am super excited for what the next couple weeks will unfold.”
Stay tuned, we'll be checking back in with our interns soon!