Thisinternship/master thesis will generate preliminary experimental and theoreticalresults for a grant application, with the possibility of contributing to ascientific publication. The main scientific question is whether an appliedelectric field can be used to tune the interaction between molecules ofinterest and SiO2-based surfaces, thereby enabling selectivecapture, release or separation.

Researchtasks

Work with the imec fluidics andbiochemistry teams to prepare SPR substrates (glass chips with adequate metalelectrodes and coating) suitable for electrically tunable molecularinteractions.
Design and perform SPR experimentsto measure adsorption, desorption, and binding kinetics of selected moleculesunder different applied electric-field conditions.
Develop a theoretical framework tointerpret the observed effects in terms of electrostatic interactions,interfacial potential, hydration forces, surface chemistry, and molecularcharge, and use this framework to propose routes toward higher-selectivityseparations.

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 (< email deleted for security reasons >) and Van Pham (< email deleted for security reasons >)

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: