AMEO at ECT Öcotoxikologie – Elizaveta Repich (2024)

Every Summer Semester, Ecotox Master students do a 2-month internship or AMEO (Applied Module at an External Organization). Today, Elizaveta Repich tells us about her AMEO experience at ECT Öcotoxikologie

Hello. My name is Elizaveta Repich, and today, I’m going to share my experience from a 10-week AMEO internship at ECT Oekotoxikologie GmbH. ECT is a GLP-certified laboratory located in Flörsheim am Main, Germany. It is also a part of SynTech Research Group, an international organization with Laboratories and Regulatory service locations in over 40 countries.

Although SynTech is a globally spread organization, ECT is a small group of people, which makes all communications very personal and comfortable. During my time there, I gained and improved skills crucial for an ecotoxicologist, such as working under GLP conditions, dealing with official paperwork, performing experiments with different test organisms, and much more.

When I arrived there, firstly I felt a little bit lost, as most other people were starting to do something new. But in a very short period, it changed, thanks to the supervision of my new colleagues, who showed me everything and helped with all of my questions.

Brilliant kitchen poster
Brilliant kitchen poster.
Preparation dilution series for the test.

During my internship, I didn’t focus on a single project; instead, I engaged in various tasks that allowed me to experience different aspects of the lab. I started with the Daphnia Magna reproduction test and then moved on to working with other organisms, including duckweed (Lemna sp.), chironomids, Lumbriculus, and fish embryos. I also learned about culture keeping for D. Magna and zebrafish (Danio rerio), which broadened my understanding of the work done in ecotoxicology.

Water renewal for the reproduction test.
Check of D. Magna for male presence.
Lumbriculus test termination.

A notable experience was the summer festival organized by ECT in June. It was a relaxed gathering where we shared food and engaged in activities. This event helped foster a sense of community among the staff and made the workplace feel more personal. Where even the study director played the guitar (picture to the left).

As I wrap up this internship, I appreciate the skills I’ve developed and the experiences I’ve had. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned in my future endeavors in ecotoxicology.