Spain: International Research at the Dairy Institute of Asturias

This Research Pack Abroad summer research internship will provide students with the opportunity to sharpen their microbiology research skills while working side-by-side with international researchers at the Dairy Institute of Asturias (Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias – IPLA) in Villaviciosa, Spain. Students will conduct laboratory research and learn new microbiology protocols and procedures at the research site in Villaviciosa, Spain. Students will experience full-cultural immersion during the internship and will develop a strong understanding of the Spanish culture. Weekends are free for the students to independently explore the country.

Summer 2025 Research:

Bifidobacterium species levels on 2’ and/or 3’ Fucosyllactose-degrading and non-degrading infant microbiotas.

 

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are present in breast milk and constitute well promoters of the grown of the genus Bifidobacterium in the infant gut. These microbes, the predominant microbial group in health fullterm neonates, have demonstrated to be beneficial for a proper infant development and maturation.  Among the different HMOs present in breast milk 2’ Fucosyllactose (2’FL) and 3’ Fucosyllactose (3’FL) are the ones present at higher levels, specially in women with secretory fenotype. In previous studies we have determined that the microbiota in around 30% of the infants is not able to utilice 2’FL, whereas just about half of the infants can use 3’FL. Given the relationship between HMOs and infant intestinal bifidobacteria the aim of this study is to use qPCR for characterising the occurrence and levels of the bifidobacterial species Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium breve and Bifidobacterium bifidum in the fecal microbiotas of 2’FL and/or 3’FL degrading and non-degrading infants. The knowledge acquired will contribute to the future development of tailor-made infant foods, also allowing the personalization of the use of donor human milk at milk banks.

 

Information

Courses: Independent Study (3 credits)

Program Dates: Mid-May to Mid-July

Deadlines

  • Scholarships Application Deadline: Apply by November 15, 2024
  • Application Deadline: Rolling admissions through March 1, 2025

Cost

  • Students cover the cost of their airfare, housing in Spain and food directly
  • IPLA will help the students find housing close to the institution
  • Students register their participation through Study Abroad Independent Study/Research Abroad
    • $75 non-refundable application fee
    • $150 Study Abroad Fee

How to Apply

Contact Dr. Adrienne Tucker directly at adrienne_tucker@ncsu.edu for application inquiry.

Have questions? We're here to help.

Adrienne Tucker, Ph.D.
Email:adrienne_tucker@ncsu.edu
Phone: 919-515-6653