master's thesis project on Development and validation of a plasma extraction protocol

Stellenbeschreibung:

Master's thesis project on Development and validation of a plasma extraction protocol for steroidomic and metabolomic analysis in wildlife species

The Leibniz-IZW is an internationally recognised research institute belonging to the Leibniz Association. The institute's aim is to understand the adaptability of wild animals in an age of global change and to contribute to species conservation using scientifically sound methods. The Leibniz-IZW researches the distribution, population dynamics and adaptations of wild animal species and investigates how they interact with pathogens, environmental influences and humans. Research at the Leibniz-IZW is interdisciplinary and ranges from molecular biology studies to the analysis of landscapes and ecosystems. In order to put its research into practice, the institute works closely with stakeholders, policy makers and conservationists.

For our Department of Reproduction Biology, we are offering a master's thesis project on Development and validation of a plasma extraction protocol for steroidomic and metabolomic analysis in wildlife species.

Endocrinological research in endangered species can substantially support conservation programs by improving our understanding of their reproductive biology and physiological plasticity. In collaboration with Ghent University (Belgium), the Department of Reproduction Biology at the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research has established a mass spectrometry based wildlife endocrine monitoring platform that enables comprehensive screening of a wide range of small molecules through the integration of two complementary approaches: steroidomics and polar to semi-polar metabolomics. Sample preparation represents a critical step in any analytical workflow and is highly dependent on the biological matrix, as it aims to reduce background interference while enhancing the detectability of the compounds of interest. The objective of this project is therefore to develop and validate a robust plasma extraction protocol for both analytical methods in plasma samples of wildlife species.

Tasks

Conducting systematic searches of scientific literature
Designing analytical experiments
Performing sample preparation, extraction, and UHPLC-HRMS analyses
Processing, analyzing, and interpreting analytical data
Writing and presenting experimental reports

Requirements

Completed Bachelor’s degree in biotechnology, biology, or veterinary medicine
Experience or interest in mass spectrometry and/or analytical chemistry
Fluent in English (spoken and written)

The master’s thesis can be started from 18th May 2026 on. Unfortunately, we cannot offer any remuneration.

Enquiries or questions should be directed to the supervisor of the master thesis Tom Cools by email or telephone .

We welcome applications regardless of gender, origin, sexual orientation, and religion. Disabled persons will be given preferential consideration in case of equal suitability. The IZW lives the principles enshrined by the German Charta of Diversity, has a diversity and inclusion strategy, is Total-E-Quality certified, promotes equality and actively supports a work-life balance. We promote diversity, so please convince us with your quality and competence.