Open Master's Thesis Project

Introduction

Electrochemical aptamer-based (EAB) sensors exploit the conformational change of an affinity bioreceptor (aptamer) coupled with an electrochemical signal tag to enable sensitive, rapid, and selective biomarker detection (Fig. 1).^[1]Our group focuses on optimizing EAB sensor platforms to improve performance in real biological matrices such as blood and saliva.^[2] We are currently seeking motivated students to contribute to the development of EAB sensors for cortisol detection on a miniaturized microchip platform.

Project objectives & Research method

You will develop a functional EAB sensor from chip fabrication through to validation in real biological samples — with the goal of demonstrating clinical applicability. 

Specifically, you will:

- Fabricate electrode chips using rapid prototyping techniques (sputtering, laser engraving)

- Functionalize chips and optimize the electrode modification layer to enhance sensor stability

- Characterize the sensor using electrochemical techniques (CV, SWV, EIS)

- Validate sensor performance in both buffer and real biofluid samples

Requirements

This project involves hands-on experimental work in chemistry and biology laboratories. A basic understanding of chemical handling and laboratory safety is essential. Prior wet lab experience is beneficial.

Possible starting date & further information

Potential starting date is as soon as possible. For further details and application contact Senyao Wang senyao.wang@tum.de

References

[1] C. Ye, H. Lukas, M. Wang, Y. Lee, W. Gao, Chem. Soc. Rev. 2024, 53, 7960-7982. https://doi.org/10.1039/D4CS00001C

[2] S. Wang, A. Elmorsy, D. Tüzün, L. Schmidt, S. Freko, L. Hiendlmeier, C. Wang, A. Ingar Romero, G. Al Boustani, H. Peng, B. Özkale, N. Nakatsuka, B. Wolfrum, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., n/a, e8361141. https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.8361141