Plant Biotechnology

Last modified: 10. March 2026

 
 

Study location	Hungary, Gödöllő
Type	Short Course, summer courses
Nominal duration	2 weeks (22 June – 3 July 2026) (8 ECTS)
Study language	English
Course code	Agricultural Science

 

Entry qualification

Bachelor diploma (or higher) Completed Genetics course The entry qualification documents are accepted in the following languages: English / Hungarian. Often you can get a suitable transcript from your school. If this is not the case, you will need official translations along with verified copies of the original. You must take the original entry qualification documents along with you when you finally go to the university.

Language requirements	English B2
Other requirements	A motivation letter must be added to your application.

Programme contact

Dr. Kovács Zsófia kovacs.zsofia@uni-mate.hu assistant professor

Overview

Week 1- Experimental Embryology course introduce students to the basic concepts of embryology. We focus on the early (preimplantation) development of mouse and farm animal embryos, as well as the main developmental stages of bird embryos. Students will also learn about different types of stem cell lines derived from mammalian and avian embryos, and their potential applications in science and medicine. Ethical issues related to embryological research are also discussed. During the practical sessions, students will learn several useful techniques, including: basic embryo manipulation methods, stem cell culture techniques, DNA and RNA isolation, and quantitative PCR (qPCR).

Week 2- Transgenic Technologies in Animal Breeding course provides a comprehensive overview of transgenic technologies and how they are used in animal breeding and research. Students will learn about both additive and targeted transgenesis techniques. To help with understanding, we look at many examples from the world of transgenic model animals and genetically modified livestock. The practical material of the course includes demonstrations of superovulation protocols and micromanipulation techniques used in transgenic technologies, as well as methods of sperm collection and quality testing. Students will learn about the steps of genotyping (sampling, DNA isolation from animal tissue, PCR, T7 assay, primer design), the basics of targeted gene modification design and in silico tools (guide RNA design) and their application. The curriculum also includes learning about the basic steps of polyclonal antibody production and the potential applications of related transgenic techniques, as well as mastering the method of poultry IgY isolation.

Contact: Dr. Zsófia Kovács, kovacs.zsofia@uni-mate.hu