The goal of this project is to remove the toxic and bitter compounds from the protein-rich seed meal of Brassica napus (oilseed rape) to develop its potential as plant-based protein for human consumption.

Background:

With the climate challenge there is an increased focus on changing our diet away from meat and towards a plant-based diet. The protein-rich seed meal of oilseed rape is currently a waste product due to the high content of toxic and bitter compounds. The goal is to increase the value of seed meal of oilseed rape as plant-based protein for human consumption by removal of the toxic and bitter compounds by Crispr/Cas9-based genome editing. This will provide a local-grown protein source to replace the unsustainable import of soybean from North- and SouthAmerica.

Activities:

a) Design and validate guideRNA targeting genes responsible for bitterness in seeds of Brassica napus.

b) Generation and validation of genome-edited, transgene-free Brassica napus protoplasts.

c) Regeneration of genome-edited Brassica napus and evaluation of bitterness level of protein in seed meal.

Work environment:
We expect you to be enthusiastic, dedicated and eager to learn and advance your skills in many disciplines (e.g. research, oral and written presentations). In return, we provide a stimulating, international research environment. where you have lots of opportunity to advance your skills within basic microbioal biotechnology.