A multidisciplinary research project including 5 PhD students is being established at the Department of Micro and Nanotechnology (DTU Nanotech) at the Technical University of Denmark aiming to develop and use a combination of sample handling and sensing on a simple DVD-based platform. Later in the project we will address high-throughput application within diagnostics and environmental monitoring in collaboration with Danish industry.
The position
The PhD project will be associated with the Nanoprobes group at the Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology at the Technical University of Denmark. The project is part of a recently granted European Research Council project âHERMES – High Exponential Rise in Miniaturized cantilever-like Sensingâ.
The aim of this PhD project is to integrate sample pretreatment and signal enhancement on a rotating disc platform (like a DVD player). The first tasks involve realizing a rotating disc facilitating sample pre-concentration using magnetic beads and building a complete system allowing this to happen in a high throughput manner. Later, preconcentrated samples will be analysed by integrated sensors such as cantilevers â using the beads for signal enhancement. Specific application within diagnostics based on cells and blood will be addressed. The successful candidate will work on micro fabrication, system development, handling of magnetic beads and molecular recognition.Â
Experimental work will be carried out in the cleanroom facilities at DTU Danchip and in the laboratories of DTU Nanotech. The project work will be performed in collaboration with co-workers at the Magnetic Systems group at DTU Nanotech, Academia Sinica, Taiwan as well as Danish companies.
The ideal applicant has a masterâs degree in engineering, physics or chemistry and has a strong interest in working experimentally in a cross-disciplinary environment. The candidate should demonstrate qualifications or interests in some of the following:
- Micro- and nanofabrication procedures
- Design of measurement systems
- Experience in functionalization and use of magnetic beads for sample extraction
- Theoretical and experimental work on lab-on-a-chip systems utilizing magnetic beads
- Centrifugal microfluidics
- Team-oriented research work
Approval and Enrolment
The Ph.D. scholarship is subject to academic approval and the candidate will be enrolÂled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Salary and appointÂÂment terms
The salary and appointÂÂment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD students at DTU. The period of employment is 3 years.
Additional information
Additional information may be obtained from Professor Anja Boisen, phone (+45) 4525 5727 or Associate Professor Mikkel Fougt Hansen, phone (+45) 4525 6338Â
Application
We must have your online application by 3 May 2013 at the latest. Apply online at the Apply button below.
Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please visit the website via the Apply button below, fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
- Curriculum vitae including a list of publications (guidelines)Â
- A letter motivating the application (guidelines)
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
- Conversion of grade averages to Danish grades (excel spreadsheet for the conversion)
Candidates may apply prior to obÂtaiÂning their master’s degree, but cannot begin before having received it.
DTU needs diverÂsity and supports equal opportunities irrespective of gender, age, and ethnic background.
DTU Nanotech – the Department of Micro- and Nanotechnology – is situated in the northern part of Copenhagen. DTU Nanotech is a centre of excellence in micro- and nanotechnology utilising sciences across the traditional boundaries of technology, thereby enabling innovative solutions for the benefit of society. DTU Nanotech has approx. 220 staff members. With 40 % international employees, the department constitutes an international environment.