Nanovip All things Nanotechnology – Nano Is The Futiure
Development and Optimisation of Electrochemical Chemical Sensing at Nanowire-based Electrodes
A funded PhD position is currently available on development and characterisation of metal nanowires, and their subsequent incorporation into chemical nanosensing devices, within the Nanotechnology Group at the Tyndall National Institute, starting in October 2010
Compared to traditional macroelectrodes, nanoscale electrodes on silicon chip substrates have tremendous potential in electrochemical applications; due to enhanced sensitivity arising from increased mass transport to the electrode (3D, diffusion) and low background charging currents. Nanoelectrodes, as electrochemical sensors, offer a viable route to attaining high sensitivity for future chemical diagnostic products. However, widespread take-up of nanoscale electrodes as sensing elements has been limited by the lack of practical and effective methodologies for fabrication of robust nanoelectrodes that combine analyte 3D diffusion profiles with high measureable electrochemical currents (nA-A).
These projects will focus on:
- Fabrication and integration of nanowires and nanowire arrays at silicon chip substrates for use as electrochemical sensors
- Detailed nanoscale characterisation of the structural, electrical and electrochemical properties of the as-fabricated nanowires and nanowire arrays
- Develop approaches to selectively modify nanowire surfaces with a range of chemical molecules specific for target molecular analytes
- Demonstrate sensitive and selective sensing of selected analytes in real time
Applications are invited from scientists and engineers who hold (or expect to obtain before October 2010) a first or second class honours undergraduate degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, electronic/electrical engineering or a closely related discipline.
The successful student will receive training in all research methods required, and will work alongside experienced professional researchers within the Nanotechnology Group, attend conferences and publish in high impact journals. The research is supported by a suite of equipment and laboratory facilities within the group that are amongst the best in Europe.
For further information on this position, please contact Dr. Alan O’Riordan, Nanotechnology Group, Tyndall National Institute (Email: alan.oriordan@tyndall.ie group webpage: www.tyndall.ie/nanotech).
To apply for this position, please send your current curriculum vitae, listing academic results to date and details of any previous laboratory experience, together with a cover letter containing the names of two referees, to careers@tyndall.ie,quoting reference number AOR – 04.