DC4 - Dynamics of the microbial communities related to HABs of Italian inland lakes; identification of possible HAB competitors/pathogens

Advisors: Massimiliano Fenice, Marcella Pasqualetti, Harald Rotsch

Location: University of Tuscia 

How to apply for this position
The application deadline for this position was Aug 19th 2024 and we are not accepting any more applications at this time.

Objectives: 
1) Identify, through meta-barcode sequencing, and/or in vitro culturing HAB species (i.e., Planktothrix spp.) and their associated microbiota over a two-year sampling period from Italian inland lakes. 
2) Identify possible non-toxigenic HAB-related strains by specific targeting. 
3) Study the different inter-species interactions between cyanobacteria and their microbial competitors/pathogens by in situ and in vitro experimentation. 
4) Cultivate HAB microbial pathogens and non-toxigenic strains to be used for biological control and preliminary laboratory tests of HAB.

Expected Results: 
1) Obtaining samples of HAB-containing freshwater from different lakes. 
2) HAB and microbial community profiles through eDNA sequencing. 
3) Identification of HAB species and their associated microbial antagonists. 
4) Cultivation of HAB and related non-toxigenic strains. 
5) Preliminary information on possible biological control of selected HABs.
 

Planned secondment(s): 
At KNAW with Dedmer van de Waal to acquire skills in cyanobacteria cultivation, identification & classification
At UNIABDN with Pieter van West to sample freshwater from inland lakes with fish farms that experience HAB outbreaks, obtain eDNA and characterize cyanobacteria with the associated microbiota; 
At OTAQ with Harry Rotsch to optimise the LPAS early detection system in for cyanobacteria.