We have developed a device to simultaneously characterize molecular structure and size by combining microfluidic technology with infrared spectroscopy (both conventional and nonlinear). This device produces two- and three-dimensional spectra, in which the different species present in a solution are separated based on their infrared frequencies and their size: InfraRed Diffusion-Ordered SpectroscopY (IRDOSY). We have already carried out proof-of-concept experiments and built a functional model of the device, see
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/anie.202213424 and
https://youtu.be/CAbtopRA04gWhat are you going to doIn this project, you will develop IR-DOSY into an effective, non-invasive, and easy-to-use lab tool to simultaneously characterize molecular structure and size, and investigate its applicability to study a wide range of systems, including amyloids, supramolecular cages, and polymers.
You will:
- Design and develop a donkey-proof device (in cooperation with the UvA's technology center) and data-analysis method (in cooperation with a data-science expert) for performing and processing IRDOSY experiments;
- Apply IRDOSY to real-life samples and publish your results in peer-reviewed journals;
- Carry out market assessment in collaboration with the UvA's Technology Transfer Officce IXA and the UvA Demonstrator Lab;
- Help to transfer IRDOSY to third parties in the industry and academia.
This Postdoc position is ideal if you are not yet sure if you want to pursue and academic or industry career after your PhD.