Stagiair YPL Research Disinfectants

In ActionWithin the department of Technology Innovations at the young plant production site in De Lier we are looking for students working on research projects to improve the young plant production to be ready for the future. You will work in an enthusiastic team of specialists in applied Research and Phytopathology.The ChallengeIn horticulture disease management represents one of the biggest challenges. Plant diseases caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi can have a considerable impact on production and cause heavy losses. Ensuring an optimal greenhouse hygiene is of great importance to prevent both the entry and the spread of plant diseases. Several disinfectants are on the market, each with pro and cons regarding efficacy and side effects (e.g. being corrosive). For this reason, choosing the right disinfectant for hands, shoes, tools and facilities must represent a good compromise between efficacy (against several target organisms), safety for the employees and the environment and reduced damage for equipment.  During your internship you will look at multiple disinfectants available for horticultural use and compare their efficacy and safety in laboratory trials to support the company in identifying the optimal product.