MasterNanosciences, nanotechnologies

There is an increasing demand today for the analysis of odours in various fields, such as air quality monitoring, food safety, quality control in the cosmetics industry and disease diagnosis. Electronic noses have advanced significantly over the last forty years and have proven effective in odour analysis. However, the performance of most existing eNs based on organic and inorganic sensing materials is inferior to that of the human nose. The main challenge lies in the selectivity and sensitivity of these devices. Over the past decade, our efforts have focused on developing novel biomimetic electronic noses based on biological sensing materials, including peptides and odorant-binding proteins (OBPs). We have developed an optical device based on surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) for the first time, which is adapted for analysing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the gas phase. This technology has been successfully commercialised through the establishment of a start-up company that has developed and launched portable biomimetic electronic noses. These electronic noses display good sensitivity (low ppb for target VOCs) and selectivity, and can differentiate between VOC isomers.
During this internship, we will further enhance these capabilities by utilising biological nanomaterials derived from proteins. Additionally, we will explore potential applications in environmental monitoring. Throughout the internship, the candidate will work in a multidisciplinary environment. They will gain knowledge and experience in surface chemistry, biochip fabrication, sensor development, odour analysis, data processing, and more.
Preference will be given to candidates who wish to pursue a PhD after completing the M2 programme.