About the Program
At Ankara University’s Evolutionary Genetics Laboratory (eGL), we use molecular data to investigate the diversity of life, the evolutionary histories of organisms, and their interactions with the environment. Working at the intersection of molecular ecology, evolutionary genetics, and conservation biology, we explore questions such as where species occur, how populations differ genetically, and how changes in ecosystems can be monitored.
Our research spans plants and fungi, wildlife, aquatic ecosystems, and microbial communities. We use DNA barcoding and environmental DNA (eDNA) approaches to study species and biological communities, while applying bioinformatics methods to analyse genomic and metagenomic data. Through ancient DNA research, we investigate past biodiversity; our biotechnology research applies molecular knowledge across different fields.
Our four-week internship programme takes place within this research environment. Depending on the research underway during their placement, interns are introduced to processes ranging from sample preparation and molecular analyses to data interpretation. Through laboratory work, scientific reading, and discussions with researchers, they develop foundational skills and learn how molecular methods are applied across different research areas.
Responsibilities and Opportunities
Four-Week Programme
Week 1 · Introduction to the Laboratory and Research Areas
The first week begins with an introduction to the workspaces, safety procedures, and laboratory notebook practices, followed by an overview of ongoing research at eGL. You will observe basic procedures such as DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis, and read about eDNA, DNA barcoding, and metabarcoding.
Week 2 · Basic Molecular Techniques
You will work on micropipette use, agarose gel preparation, and PCR procedures. Through accompanying readings and discussions, we will examine the purpose of each experimental step, the controls used, and potential sources of error that may affect the results.
Week 3 · Sequencing and Understanding Molecular Data
You will explore Sanger and next-generation sequencing approaches and follow relevant workflows within the laboratory’s experimental schedule. Using example chromatograms and biological databases, we will discuss how the resulting data are evaluated.
Week 4 · Introduction to Bioinformatics and Final Review
You will be introduced to basic approaches for comparing DNA sequences and processing metabarcoding data. The internship concludes with a supervised DNA extraction exercise, completion of laboratory records, and a final review.
Practical activities are scheduled according to ongoing projects and the laboratory’s experimental timetable. Participation in fieldwork may be possible, depending on the fieldwork schedule and working conditions during the internship.
Shared Learning and Reflection
We share the work plan at the beginning of each week and come together again for Science Club sessions at the end of the week. During these sessions, we discuss the papers we have read, the experiments carried out, and the questions that have arisen along the way. Short presentations give interns an opportunity to explain the topics they have explored in their own words and participate in scientific discussions.
Laboratory notebooks are also part of this learning process. The purpose of each experiment, the procedures followed, observations, and results are recorded systematically, and the entries are developed through feedback from internship coordinators. This approach is designed to help you gain practical experience in preparing, documenting, evaluating, and communicating research.
Requirements
Our approach to learning is based on preparation and shared responsibility. During your internship, we expect you to:
Read the relevant protocol before each experiment and ask about anything that is unclear.
Regularly document procedures, observations, and results in your laboratory notebook.
Follow safety, contamination prevention, and confidentiality requirements.
Prepare weekly readings and presentations, and participate in review meetings.
Take care of shared workspaces and equipment, and inform the internship coordinators of any circumstances that may affect the work plan.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to undergraduate students and graduates in biology, molecular biology and genetics, veterinary medicine, wildlife ecology and management, food engineering, agricultural engineering, chemistry, anthropology, and other disciplines.
Previous laboratory experience is not required. An interest in molecular methods and biological research, attention to detail, and a willingness to take responsibility for your learning are important. Basic English proficiency is expected to help you follow scientific papers and experimental protocols.
Internship Dates and Applications
To apply, complete the online application form and submit your CV and a short motivation letter. In your letter, you can describe your scientific interests, why you would like to intern at eGL, and what you hope to learn during the programme.
Winter internship application period: 2 November–17 December 2026
Announcement of results: 31 December 2026
Winter internship dates: 25 January–19 February 2027