I am Miriam from Germany and I am pursuing my PhD at the at the School of Veterinary Science at Massey University. My PhD is part of the MBIE Endeavour 'Smart Bioplastics' programme and will aim to reduce the size of bioparticles to enhance their protein surface display efficiency. These modified bioparticles could help to extend the shelf life of food and reduce food waste.

In my former research, I focused on microbiome research at the Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene hosted by Saarland University Hospital, Germany. The research involved analyzing the gut microbiome of several zoo animals, where I discovered numerous previously uncharacterized bacteria. I was also part of a team that tested a system for contactless screening of virus-related respiratory diseases.

Before that, I researched oats at the German Federal Research Institute for the Safety and Quality of Grain. I investigated the potential of oat-derived molecules to activate the human aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which could effectively treat individuals with inflammatory skin diseases. In later research, I analysed the microbiological load of oats and oats products like overnight oats.

During my bachelor's thesis, I discovered my passion for research and scientific work. With the education I will receive at Massey University, I will be able to become a well-educated researcher.

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