Enhancing Shrimp Survival: A Bioinformatics Intern’s Research at BIOTEC in Thailand

Samuel Jones
PIPS Host Organisation: National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) acting through National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), Thailand
Project Title: Identification of Beneficial Genes in Lactobacillus johnsonii to Promote Shrimp Growth and Survival Against WSSV Infection

Samuel Jones carried out a bioinformatics project, utilizing tools such as genome annotation, secondary metabolite prediction, protein structure prediction, protein-protein interaction, Python, and BLAST to investigate which Lactobacillus johnsonii genes or proteins may be promoting shrimp survival against White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV).

During his placement, Samuel gained a variety of skills and knowledge, including academic, personal, and professional development. These included various bioinformatic techniques, an insight into how a government-led research organization operates, and experience and confidence in traveling to, living, and working in another country and research organization. Furthermore, the experience confirmed that bioinformatics is something he would like to incorporate more into future research.

One of the main takeaways from Samuel’s placement is an improved sense of independence and confidence regarding traveling, living, and researching abroad. It was his first exposure to living and researching outside of the UK, which was initially intimidating but is now something he would feel more comfortable and would enjoy doing again in the future. Additionally, it has increased his confidence in the idea of working in a different research environment in the future.