PhD project

Quantum sensing using optical bionanosensors

Abstract

Quantum nanosensors offer significant advantages over classical sensors, including high sensitivity and resolution. One type of such quantum nanosensor is photoluminescent nanoparticles, whose detection is based on monitoring luminescence changes in response to external stimuli. The goal of the project is to read optical nanosensors using pulsed optical electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) detection and tracking spectral changes. The student will design and implement advanced pulse sequences into an existing quantum confocal microscope, conduct measurements, and analyze the results. Furthermore, they will optimize the sensitivity of the nanosensors through chemical surface modifications. The outcome of the project will be time-resolved, localized quantum detection in biologically relevant environments. The expected knowledge of the applicant should be at the level of a completed Master's degree in the field of biophysics, chemical physics or physical chemistry. The work will be carried out by the Synthetic Nanochemistry team at the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences.

Study program: Molecular chemical physics and sensorics (D403), Physical chemistry (D-FYCH, D-AFYCH), Biophysics, Chemical and Macromolecular Physics (P4F4A), Biomedical engineering

Universities

PhD students must be enrolled in a partner university and will be employed by the IOCB Prague at the same time (part-time or full time), which results in a competitive salary (a scholarship from the university + a salary from the IOCB). Each university has its own process, terms, and deadlines for PhD applications, which is separate from the IOCB recruitment process. You may discuss the details with the respective PI.