Every Summer Semester, Ecotox Master students do a 2-month internship or AMEO (Applied Module at an External Organization). Today, Selina Schüller shares her AMEO experience working at Eurofins Agroscience Services Ecotox GmbH in Niefern-Öschelbronn.

Hello, my name is Selina Schüller and I am studying ecotoxicology at RPTU in Landau. During the summer of 2025, I completed my three-month AMEO internship at Eurofins Agroscience Services Ecotox GmbH in Niefern-Öschelbronn.

Eurofins Agroscience Services Ecotox GmbH is part of the Eurofins Group and is one of Europe’s leading companies conducting efficacy and regulatory tests on agrochemicals, chemicals, biocides and veterinary products. A key focus of ecotoxicology is performing laboratory and field studies to support the approval of plant protection products.

During my internship, I had the opportunity to carry out a wide range of tasks in both the field and in the laboratory, with the main focus on conducting field studies in accordance with the OECD Principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), following the respective study plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

My responsibilities included bees, pollen, and vegetation sampling, carrying out various measurements, and recording relevant data such as colony assessments, mortality observations, and behavioural monitoring of honeybees. I occasionally conducted preparatory laboratory work, such as dissecting nectar stomachs, although this represented only a small part of my overall duties.

I was part of a team that researched the impact of agrochemical products on bees. This allowed me to develop my practical skills further and gain a deeper understanding of how different substances influence bee health and behaviour.

Depending on the study phase, we either worked in small groups or independently when sampling the trial sites. On days when a new phase of the study began, we worked as a larger team, operating closely together to ensure that all procedures ran smoothly. These days were often intensive due to the number of assessments conducted during the day, but they also allowed us to work together as a team and enjoy a refreshing ice cream break on particularly hot days.

I received a monthly salary of 550 € for the internship, as well as an additional 200 € for travel expenses. Overall, the experience was extremely valuable. I was able to apply my theoretical knowledge in practice, strengthen my fieldwork skills and learn to work independently, efficiently and in accordance with regulatory standards. This hands-on experience has been an important step in preparing me for a future career in ecotoxicology.

I would like to thank the entire Eurofins Agroscience Services Ecotox team for their welcome and support during my internship. I really appreciated the friendly atmosphere, and all the knowledge I gained.