This internship offers hands-on experience in microbiology, focusing on the challenges and innovations in the shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) industry. Interns will investigate mycovirus prevalence in cultivated mushrooms and develop containment strategies, explore hydrogel-based cryopreservation methods for long-term strain storage, use RAPD and SCAR markers to differentiate shiitake strains for breeding and quality control, and repurpose spent mushroom substrates to synthesize silver nanoparticles for antimicrobial applications. Additionally, the project aims to develop virus-resistant or heat-tolerant shiitake strains through mutation, culture medium optimization, or wild strain collection. Interns will participate in laboratory research and fieldwork at 元益多生物科技股份有限公司 (YI TSAI GLOBAL CORP.), gaining expertise in strain preservation, cultivation techniques, environmental control, and sustainable farming solutions.

The internship provides a monthly scholarship of up to 12,000 NT, excluding airfare and accommodation, with the exact amount determined by interview results. A minimum commitment of three to four months is required. Applicants should ideally have microbiology-related experience and English communication skills. All candidates must complete an online interview.