DNA-mediated electrochemistry

Project overview
Harnessing biological machinery (e.g., enzymes) on solid-state platforms is a “holy grail” in nanotechnology, with applications ranging from DNA synthesis to high-precision diagnostics. However, a fundamental mismatch exists: biological molecules are soft, ionic, and structurally complex, while electronics are rigid and electron-based. Creating a reproducible, electrically active junction between a protein and a metal electrode remains a significant scientific bottleneck.

This project explores DNA nanotechnology - specifically DNA origami and modified DNA strands - as the ultimate interface material. DNA offers programmable precision for positioning enzymes and unique charge-transport properties that can be tuned to facilitate direct electrical communication between the electrode and the biological machine.

You will join a multidisciplinary team investigating how DNA nanostructures can serve as a conductive bridge to control enzyme function. You will contribute to advancing our understanding of how electrical potential can actively control enzymatic activity via DNA-mediated charge transport, moving beyond mere observation.

Scope of work
This is a high-intensity, hands-on internship involving both cleanroom microfabrication and wet-lab electrochemistry:

• Microfabrication: Process micro-electrode arrays (MEAs) in the cleanroom using photolithography and thin-film deposition techniques.
• Surface engineering: Optimize site-selective functionalization protocols (e.g., silanization, electrografting, click-chemistry) to anchor DNA to metal electrodes.
• Electrochemical characterization: Deeply investigate the interface using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and chronocoulometry.
• Data analysis & modeling: Analyze complex electrochemical datasets using scripting and correlate findings with theoretical models of biomolecular charge transport.
• Literature review: Develop an in-depth, targeted understanding of DNA-mediated charge transfer based on existing literature.

Work environment
This internship provides practical experience at imec Leuven (Belgium), a world-renowned microelectronics research institute, where innovative scientific research is applied to address real-world challenges. Interns will have the opportunity to collaborate with imec professionals and access advanced laboratory facilities within an international setting.

Candidate profile

• You should have a solid theoretical foundation in electrochemistry and surface science.
• You have a strong interest in experimental work within both cleanroom and wet laboratory environments.
• You should have a high ambition to learn and a commitment to developing new skills.
   

Type of Project: Internship

Master's degree: Master of Engineering Science; Master of Science; Master of Bioengineering

Master program: Bioscience Engineering; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

Duration: 5 months

Supervisor: Philippe Vereecken (Bioscience, Nano)

For more information or application, please contact the supervising scientist Kherim Willems (Kherim.Willems@imec.be). 

Only for self-supporting students.