Isheng Jason Tsai

Department

Academia Sinica (Biodiversity Research Center)

Job Title

Research Fellow

INSTRUCTION LANGUAGES

PERSONAL BIO

WORK EXPERIENCE AND AWARDS

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

VacancIES

Brief Introduction of the Department

【Trait Diversity and Function Department】

The Trait Diversity and Function Department is one of the largest departments at Kew, bringing together a vibrant research community focused on plant and fungal adaptation, resilience, biotic interactions, and bioactive molecules. The department investigates how organisms survive in a rapidly changing world and develops innovative technologies and methods to explore the properties of plants and fungi, their evolutionary drivers, and their potential applications.

Research draws on Kew’s unparalleled collections as well as newly gathered material. This work supports major applied outcomes, including improving the success of ecological restoration and species reintroduction programmes, and expanding the range of species that can enhance nutrition and deliver nature-based solutions. A key focus is the investigation of traits relevant to agriculture—both for improving major crops and for advancing minor, underused species that may be more resilient to environmental change.

The department also examines the molecular basis of useful traits by integrating genomics and chemistry to identify new biomolecules with potential benefits for human health, livelihoods, and well-being. In addition, innovative plant health research is uncovering the genetic foundations of resistance to significant pests and pathogens in species of economic and ecological importance.

Department Staff Number

More than 10 people

Internship Job Description

Our living environment is shaped by millions of organisms interacting with one another and with the non-living world. Among these, fungi play vital—though often hidden—roles. Beneath the soil, many fungi form cord-like networks, sometimes described as “fungal highways,” which function like underground roads. These structures can transport water and nutrients between plants, connect different soil patches, and even act as rapid movement pathways for bacteria. Yet, despite their importance, fungal highways remain surprisingly understudied. Do most fungi build them, or only a few species? Are they widespread across the planet, or restricted to certain habitats?

To help answer these questions, the successful NTU student will join ongoing research to uncover the diversity of fungal cord systems. This will involve using forensic-style techniques to collect fragments of fungal cords from soil and identify them through DNA sequencing. We will also sample mushrooms from the same locations and compare their DNA with the underground networks to understand which fungi build and utilise these structures. Finally, the student will conduct histological analyses using light microscopy—and, optionally, electron microscopy—to examine internal structural differences among fungal cords.

By revealing the diversity and distribution of fungal highways, this project aims to shed light on an overlooked but essential component of ecosystem function.

Preferred Intern Education Level

Undergraduate students (third year and above)
Master Students
Doctoral Students

Preferred Intern Skill Sets or Qualities

Basic experience in microbiology (e.g., fungal culturing) is preferred but not required.
Basic molecular biology skills (DNA extraction, PCR) are helpful but not essential.
Microscopy experience is advantageous but not necessary.
The mentor will provide full induction and support for learning all required methods.

Internship Period

From June 14 to September 5, 2027 (adjustable at the discretion of the organisation)

Others

Expected working hours per week: 36 hours
Salary/Financial Support: 教育部學海築夢 scholarship
The position is located in Wakehurst
The position is and must be subsidized by 「教育部學海築夢」 scholarship, so non-Taiwanese students are not eligible to apply.