We are looking to recruit a

Master Thesis - Biomimetic-Supported Lipid Bilayers on 3D-Conducting Polymer Surfaces for Neural Interfaces

titel

One of the research topics at the Institute of Biological Information Processing - Bioelectronics (IBI-3) of the Forschungszentrum Jülich is the development of neuroelectronic devices, whose potential applications include, among many, the study and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. As a question of fundamental research, we’re studying biomimetic platforms and coatings that optimize the cell-chip coupling paving the way towards the implementation of in vitro platforms to investigate and characterize neurodegenerative processes involving synaptic plasticity loss. The proposed project will investigate the effects of a microstructured bioelectronic platform on the formation of supported lipid bilayers to get a biomimetic platform mimicking geometry and composition of neuronal cells. To this end, protruding structures as bumps and 3D pillars with varied geometries will be fabricated by means of photolithography and electrodeposition. Electrochemical methods, FRAP and AFM will be then used to monitor the formation and homogeneity of SLB assembled on the 3D polymer substrates.

Institute issuing the offer
IBI-3
external id
2023M-096

Your Job:

  • You do research on supported lipid bilayers and biomimetic structures in order to optimize 3D structures geometries to allow SLB formation and preserve the biomembrane integrity on conductive polymers
  • You characterize SLB formation and 3D structures geometries by means of Electrochemistry, FRAP, AFM, and SEM
  • Communicate with internal and external as well as national and international project partners
  • You evaluate SLB uniformity and fluidity on the patterned substrates

Your Profile:

  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in the field of Biomedical Engineering, Biomaterials or a comparable course of study
  • Professional competence: Knowledge in artificial membranes, polymer biomaterials, nanofabrication, neuroengineering
  • Interest in neuroelectronics, neural interface.
  • Willingness to familiarize yourself with new methods, technologies and environment
  • Fluent English in writing and speaking



Further desirable qualifications:

  • Interest in bioelectronics and fabrication technologies.
  • High degree of independence, motivation and reliability / independent and analytical working style
  • Very reliable and conscientious style of working
  • Excellent ability to cooperate and work in a team

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

  • An interesting and socially relevant topic for your thesis with future-oriented themes
  • Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies
  • An interdisciplinary collaboration on projects in an international, committed and collegial team
  • Excellent technical equipment and the newest technology
  • Qualified support through your scientific colleagues
  • The chance to independently prepare and work on your tasks
  • Flexible working hours as well as a reasonable remuneration
  • The possibility of flexible working location, e.g. home office
  • A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work


In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits


We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

We look forward to receiving your application. The job will be advertised until the position has been successfully filled. You should therefore submit your application as soon as possible.

Apply now

Questions about the offer?

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Last Modified: 18.12.2023