Clinical and Epidemiological VirologyLaboratory of Viral Metagenomics - Research Team of Prof. Jelle Matthijnssens

6-month internship in Advanced Cell Culture Technologies as part of my Master ThesisKey responsibilities included:• Insect cells cultivation: media hydration, passaging, cryofreezing, cell counting• Quantification assays using spectrophotometric detection• RNA extraction, RT-qPCR • Literature review & design of experimental assays• Report writing, oral presentations, electronic lab book (ELN)

11-month student-driven project part of the international iGEM competition.Key responsibilities included:• Finance Management: writing funding applications, financial planning & budgeting, banking, record-keeping, and overseas trip planning for a group of 16• Media & Design: content creation (Instagram & FB), design of a scientific poster, project banners, and team merchandise• Lab support: performing basic microbiology lab techniques>> During my iGEM journey, I had the opportunity to work in a team of 16 science students from 13 different nationalities. iGEM has been an amazing learning experience where I demonstrated great creativity, collaboration skills, and multi-tasking abilities. I raised funds by contacting academic and corporate sponsors, managed expenses (lab material, competition fees, travel expenses), and launched a crowdfunding campaign that helped to raise up to 1400€. iGEM also helped me to improve my community management and science communication skills. The design of pedagogic visuals and the use of an effective layout in the project poster led to a nomination for "Best Poster" at the iGEM Giant Jamboree.

5-month internship in Flavors and Fragrances R&DKey responsibilities included:• Benefits assessment of a perfume encapsulation technology with analytical tools (SPME, LC-MS)• Performance tests of a perfume encapsulation technology through olfactive assessments• Storyboard design used for the making of an internal animation video• Literature review and interviews of field experts • Report writing, oral presentations, pitch sessions, and poster design

5-week internship in Surface Treatment ProcessKey responsibilities included:• Microbead blasting and anodization (Type I) of medical implants and surgical tools• Quality inspection before dispatch to clients