Thesis
Master's thesis with the topic "Imaging Plant Defense Chemistry" - BIOTIC.1
Stellenanangebot Thesis in 14979 Großbeeren | Deutschland
Job description
Master thesis opportunity
Title: Imaging Plant Defense Chemistry
Plants constantly defend themselves against insects and pathogens using a diverse array of natural compounds. In Brassica vegetables such as cabbage, glucosinolates play a central role in these defense strategies. Different glucosinolate classes fulfill distinct biological functions: aliphatic glucosinolates mainly protect against herbivores, whereas indolic glucosinolates are involved in defense responses against pathogens. Based on these functional differences, it is hypothesized that the two glucosinolate classes show different spatial distribution patterns within plant tissues.
In this Master's thesis project, you will investigate the spatial distribution of glucosinolates in different leaf tissues of head cabbage using mass spectrometry-based imaging techniques. The project offers hands-on experience with advanced analytical and imaging techniques and contributes to a deeper understanding of plant defense mechanisms. It is particularly suited for motivated students interested in plant science, analytical chemistry, and mass spectrometry-based approaches.
Methods
- Sampling different leaf tissues of cabbages
- Extraction, characterization and quantification of glucosinolates using HPLC-DAD-ToF-MS
- Sample preparation for MALDI imaging (embedding, tissue sectioning, matrix application)
- Analysis of spatial glucosinolate distribution using MALDI imaging mass spectrometry
- Data analysis, visualization, and statistical analysis
Requirements
- Enrollment in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field
- Experience with mass spectrometry analytical methods
- Interest in plant science and experimental lab work
We offer
- An interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment
- Training in modern analytical and imaging techniques
- Close supervision and support
The Master thesis will be conducted in the BIOTIC.1 research group under the supervision of Dr. Vanda Púčiková at the Leibniz Institute for Horticultural Sciences (IGZ). For further information or applications, please contact Vanda Púčiková (pucikova@igzev.de).