Biopolymers Confined Polymerization for the Patterned in Situ Growth of nanoscale Metasurfaces with Single Particle Resolution

Research theses
Abstract

The project will explore the confined polymerization of various biopolymers to achieve region-specific substrate chemical contrast via a one-step patterning approach. The objective is to develop fast and scalable methodology that can be applied to variety of different substrates. The obtained chemically patterned substrates will be exploited for the in situ growth of both metallic and dielectric nanoparticles with nanometric precision, yielding functional metasurfaces. The optimization of robust, scalable, and versatile methodologies will have significant impact across a variety of different fields, going from catalysis to biosensing, from photonics to optoelectronics, from communication to diagnostic devices.

The internship is developed within the framework of the ERC StG NANOGROWDIRECT (Grant Agreement 101115164).
The NanoOddLAB is a multidisciplinary research team that foster the creation of a rewarding and motivating work environment, with the goal of enjoying the discovery process that thrusts scientific innovation. Group activities and frequent scientific discussions are encouraged within and outside the group, with meetings organized on a weekly basis. Collaborative projects are highly encouraged, fostering innovation and learning.

Keywords
Metasurfaces
Biopolymers
In Situ Growth; Bottom-Up Synthesis
Patterned Growth
ERC sector(s)
PE Physical Sciences and Engineering
Thesis supervisor
Name supervisor
Leonardo Scarabelli
E-mail
eunice@unican.es
Department/Faculty/School/Institute/Area/Division NAME
Department of Chemistry, Process and Resource Engineering
Name of the host University
University of Cantabria (UC)
EUNICE partner e-mail of destination Research
area.eunice@unican.es
Country
Spain
Student profile
Thesis level
Bachelor
Master
PhD
Minimal language knowledge requisite
English B2
Additional info
Length of the research internship
6 months
Financial support available (other than E+)
Maybe
Research interests for cooperation opportunities
The NanoOddLAB develops unconventional bottom-up in situ fabrication strategies with nanoscale precision, combining wet chemistry, fluid dynamics, electromagnetism and electrochemistry.