We aim to develop a mass sensitive sensor for the detection of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The pandemic still persist but the detection of corona infections by qualitative rapid diagnose tests has proven being an effect instrument to limit the virus’s spread. Nevertheless, quantitative point of care sensors are still rare although providing valuable information on the patient health status. In this project, the quantitative detection of the coronavirus should be achieved by measuring the shift of the frequency of surface acoustic waves during the specific binding of spike proteins of the coronavirus. The surface acoustic waves (SAW) are stimulated via microelectrode transducers deposited on ultrathin piezoelectric films. These films are modified by novel DNA receptor molecules that can selectively bind the spike protein similar to antibodies. However, on the way to detect those spike proteins, still several implementation steps need to be optimized for the successful operation of the sensor.
Your tasks in detail are:
- Fabrication of sensor chips in the clean room of the Forschungszentrum Jülich
- Tuning the composition of the piezoelectric films facilitating high sensor sensitivity and low detection limits. This optimization is done in collaboration with the Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung - IKZ in Berlin.
- Perform high frequency electrical measurements, prepare and work with buffer solutions as model biologic fluid
- Independent characterisation of the composition of both the sensor as well as surface modifications
Your Profile:
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in physics, material science, or physical chemistry
- Experiences in coding
- Ability to communicate with scientists and technicians from various disciplines
- Well-structured and systematic research approach
- Independency
- Passion for science
Our Offer:
We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:
- An interesting and socially relevant topic for your thesis with future-oriented themes
- Multifaceted work in an interdisciplinary and international setting, as well as a cooperative work environment
- Fantastic research equipment facilities
- Work in a state of the art clean room
- All equipment required to execute the project is available
- A national collaboration with the IKZ in Berlin
- Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies
- Qualified support through your scientific colleagues
- The chance to independently prepare and work on your tasks
- Flexible working hours as well as a reasonable remuneration
- Forschungszentrum Jülich located closely to Belgium and the Netherlands with strong links to the ABCD Region (Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf) which is one of the leading high-tech
We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation/identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.
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