The continuation of the education on the topic of Microplastics – sampling, analysis, and instrumentation

On Wednesday, January 15th, 2025, the partner of the project “MInimizing CROssborder water contamination of microPLASTICS – MICROPLASTICS” Ludovika University of National Public Service from Budapest (headquartered in Bája), organized a continuation of the workshop on the topic of Microplastics – Sampling, Analysis, and Instrumentation. The lecturer was Mr. Prikler Bence. He is an experienced biologist with a specialization in environmental microbiology, focused on understanding the environmental impact of microplastics and the behavior of pathogens in the plastisphere. His expertise includes designing and implementing research related to microplastic pollution, heavy metal contamination, and the isolation of opportunistic pathogens, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Skilled in molecular biology, he uses techniques such as PCR and flow cytometry to investigate microbial communities, antibiotic resistance, virulence, and gene expression in response to environmental pollutants. His work contributes to understanding the risks of microplastics-associated pathogens and their interactions with pollutants in various environments, including water and soil systems. He actively participates in international collaborations and contributes to projects aimed at advancing methodologies for microplastic detection and environmental risk assessment on a global scale.
In addition to the theoretical part, our partners from Bája also organized joint sampling of surface water and sediment from Sugovica, a side arm of the Danube River. In the laboratory, we had the opportunity to observe the sample preparation, cleaning (packaging), and storage of the samples. Representatives from public health institutions, who are the target group of these educational sessions, as well as partner institutions, had numerous questions for the lecturer, Mr. Prikler. The entire education was extremely interesting, and primarily useful and practical.