In order to decrease the environmental impact caused by the construction sector, biobased materials need to be further developed to allow better integration and acceptance in the market. Mycelium composites are innovative products, with intrinsic properties which rise the attention of architects, designers and industrial companies. Mycelium is the underground network of fungi, such as mushrooms. Mycelium acts as a natural glue to bind biomass particles. Mycelium grows through the fibers, which function as a growth substrate and a bio-composite matrix. Different organic residual streams from agricultural waste (straw, hemp shives) can be used as substrate. Mycelium composites can be divided into board and foam materials, both of which have the potential to substitute conventional materials, i.e. chipboard, medium density fireboard (MDF), as well as conventional insulation materials i.e. EPS or PIR.
We have been developing the line of mycelium projects for over 5 years, and are looking into writing new project proposals for subsidies and to write more articles related to our work. Currently, we are starting up an E.U. subsidy proposal with different international partners as well as regional partners. Starting up a large and complex research proposal needs to include a lot of organization between partners, managing expectation, structuring the work needed and solid background research. So, we need a networking expert with a good sense of business and affinity with innovation and technology.
Assignment description
As an intern at MNEXT, you will have the opportunity to contribute to an exciting research project line, focused on understanding mycelium composites better, and looking to bring the material closer to the market. You have a role in bringing information together, the writing process and market research. Part of the work could also be some experimenting in the lab if and prototyping if desired. You will be part of the current Mycelium material group and you will enhance the productivity of the group, contributing to the development of the research. Your project will involve the following activities:
Environmental analysis on different fibre types available within the region.
- Growth of mycelium bio-composite samples, to familiarize yourself with the materials (and/or research new ideas).
- Conducting a thorough literature review on possible EU subsidies and the procedure needed to have a successful proposal. Besides, you will dive into machine building and innovative automation processes.
- You will write texts that can be used for articles or the subsidy proposal for automating mycelium development.
- Possibility: Helping out in the research of the effect of electricity on mycelium. This includes design and conducting the research.
- Collaborating with other members of the research team to develop new ideas.
Starting Date
February – July 2024. The length of this graduation internship assignment is approximately 20 weeks. The student who will execute the assignment gets a fee of €350,- per month.
Desirable skills/qualities of the student
The student should be able to work independently and as a member of a team> you should be comfortable with carrying out independent research. Background in international business, business innovation, environmental science, business development, and/or business administration is preferred. Otherwise: substantiate why you are a good match for this assignment! Both HBO or university students are welcome.
Contact:
Contact person concerning this assignment: Fran Ortega Exposito or Annine Rozema
Phone: +31 643716722 / +31 654627485
E-mail : fa.ortegaexposito1@avans.nl / adk.rozema@avans.nl
Visiting address: Avans Breda / AKV St. Joost Den Bosch — Kunst Academy
Street / number, areal code and place: Lovendijkstraat 61-63, Breda / Parallelweg 21-23, ‘s-Hertogenbosch
Postal address: 4818AJ / 5223 AL.