Electric-field modulation of molecular affinity at modified surfaces for selective separations
Master internship - Leuven | Just now
This internship/master thesis will generate preliminary experimental and theoretical results for a grant application, with the possibility of contributing to a scientific publication. The main scientific question is whether an applied electric field can be used to tune the interaction between molecules of interest and SiO2-based surfaces, thereby enabling selective capture, release or separation.
Research tasks
- Work with the imec fluidics and biochemistry teams to prepare SPR substrates (glass chips with adequate metal electrodes and coating) suitable for electrically tunable molecular interactions.
- Design and perform SPR experiments to measure adsorption, desorption, and binding kinetics of selected molecules under different applied electric-field conditions.
- Develop a theoretical framework to interpret the observed effects in terms of electrostatic interactions, interfacial potential, hydration forces, surface chemistry, and molecular charge, and use this framework to propose routes toward higher-selectivity separations.
Type of internship: Master internship
Duration: 6 month
Required educational background: Biomedical engineering, Bioscience Engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Other
Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Camila Dalben Madeira Campos (Camila.DalbenMadeiraCampos@imec.be) and Van Pham (Van.Pham@imec.be)
The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-237. Mention this reference code in your application.
Imec allowance will be provided for students studying at a non-Belgian university.
Applications should include the following information:
- resume
- motivation
- current study
Incomplete applications will not be considered.