PhD project

Preparation and characterization of quantum-optical bionanosensors

Abstract

Photoluminescent nanodiamonds represent a novel type of quantum biosensor that exploits changes in luminescent properties in response to external stimuli. Compared to classical sensors, they offer the benefits of high sensitivity and resolution but are often nonspecific. The aim of the project is to chemically functionalize these sensors for specific and sensitive detection in biologically relevant environments. To achieve this, the student will employ covalent surface modifications of nanosensors in a colloidal state and subsequently characterize them. The functionality of the constructed nanosensors will be verified using a quantum confocal microscope with advanced pulse sequences. The outcome of the project will be time-resolved, localized quantum detection of specific molecules. 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.