Experience from a leading workplace: Internship at Bayreuth University focusing on microplastics

During three intensive days, our colleagues had the opportunity to join the SFB Mikroplastik research group, which focuses on interdisciplinary research on microplastics. They gained hands-on experience in sample preparation, advanced analytical techniques, and data evaluation — acquiring valuable practical skills and inspiration for further research.

The issue of microplastics is becoming increasingly relevant — these tiny plastic particles, smaller than 5 mm, are found in water, soil, and even air, and can have serious impacts on ecosystems and human health. The detection, identification, and monitoring of microplastics in the environment therefore represent a key research challenge of our time.

Our Water Treatment and Analysis research group is also actively engaged in microplastics research, focusing both on their occurrence in various water matrices and on their removal using water treatment technologies.

We thank Bayreuth Universität for this great opportunity to exchange knowledge and strengthen international collaboration!