Isolation of fungi, fungal spores and conidia from air, soil and plant material
Climate change will increase the risks for the presence of mycotoxins in food and feed, and challenge food safety in general. This student research hub aims to present some biocontrol and biotech solutions for controlling the presence of mycotoxins in food and feed. In the theoretical part, students will be introduced to fungal biology, the basics of food safety, and EU legislation in this field. The practical part of the SRH focuses on laboratory techniques for the isolation of fungi from different environments/surfaces, morphological determination of fungi, extraction and evaluation of some mycotoxins, and activity measurement of some fungal enzymes. At the end of the SRH, students should propose a method to prevent the presence of mycotoxins in food and feed or to remove them from food and feed.
General learning outcomes
After the completion of the hub, students will be able to:
- Prepare different types of growing media for fungi.
- Isolate fungi, fungal spores or conidia from air, soil, and plant materials.
- Morphologically identify fungal genera by using identification keys.
- Extract fungal secondary metabolites and enzymes.
- Prepare a scientific report on obtained results.
|
Assessment method: |
Report & presentation |
|
Prerequisites for participating students: |
Students should have a good knowledge in chemistry and general biology.
Students of EU-CONEXUS Minor course “Introduction to microbial biotechnology” will be prioritised |
Thematic area:
Microbial biotechnology
Mentor:
Dr. Jelena Loncar
University:
University of Zadar
Faculty/Department:
Department of Ecology, agronomy and aquaculture
Email address:
PhD Leader:
Ana Gasparevic Pinto
PhD Leader’s email address:
Start date:
01 / 04 / 2026
Closing date:
31 / 05 /2026
Deadline for applications:
03/10/2025
Physical presence mandatory
Yes
Duration of physical presence:
1 week
Only online courses
No
Schedule:
View here
